Beginning next week, the Hamilton County Department of Education will operate on a four-day work week.
This means all HCDE buildings and facilities will be closed on Fridays during the months of June and July.
During this time, HCDE will operate Monday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
so all parents and community members wishing to enroll students or speak with school officials will have multiple opportunities throughout the summer to do so.
HCDE Interim Superintendent Dr. Kirk Kelly stressed the importance of getting the word out to the community about this schedule change. “We want to be sure every student and parent knows about our summer schedule because we are here 40 hours a week to enroll and register students, and to provide housing affidavits and the other services we offer.”
Employees will continue to work the same number of hours (now spread out over four 10-hour-long days rather than five eight-hour-long days), however, the move to a four-day workweek means the district will save a considerable amount in energy and utility bills.
“Every principal will also be working in each individual school on the same four-day schedule,” Dr. Kelly added, “preparing schedules and getting the buildings ready for the 2017-2018 school year.”
On average, HCDE saves $160,000 by implementing the four-day work schedule. The savings are based on a combination of utilities and fuel costs.
Friday, June 2, will mark the first Friday of the new summer schedule. Reminders will be posted throughout the summer on the front doors of every building, as well as the HCDE Facebook page, Twitter page, and Instagram account.