The Ely School Board has unanimously approved a transition to a four-day school week, set to commence this fall. This decision aims to address the district’s budgetary challenges while maintaining educational standards.
In a meeting held on April 13, 2026, the board voted 6-0 in favor of the change. The move aligns Ely with other Northern Minnesota districts exploring similar schedules to manage financial constraints.
Under the new plan, students will attend classes from Monday through Thursday, with Fridays designated for teacher planning and professional development. The district believes this schedule will lead to cost savings and provide educators with additional time for curriculum planning.
Community reactions have been mixed. Some parents express concerns about childcare on Fridays, while others appreciate the potential benefits of the new schedule. The district plans to monitor the program’s effectiveness and gather feedback from students, parents, and staff throughout the academic year.
For more information on the upcoming changes, residents are encouraged to attend the next school board meeting or visit the district’s official website.