Wyoming Statutes 21-2-304(b)(viii) and 21-4-301 allow school districts to request a waiver from the requirement that schools be in session for 175 student contact days each year. Districts may apply for an alternative school schedule for up to two school years by submitting an application. Districts approved for a two-year alternative schedule must submit a continuation application if they intend to continue the schedule for the second year.
Section 4 of the Chapter 2 Education Rules (School Schedules) requires districts to submit their requests to the State Board of Education between January 1 and April 1 each year.
An application must include:
- The district’s educational objectives.
- A description of the proposed schedule and a copy of the proposed calendar.
- Methods for evaluating improvements in student achievement.
- Evidence that two public meetings were advertised and held.
- Records of public comments.
- Documentation showing the district will meet the required instructional hours for each grade level.
A district may not be approved for more than two years at a time unless it has completed two consecutive approved applications (a total of four years). After completing this four-year cycle, a district may request and be granted a five-year extension of its alternative schedule.
Section 4 of the Chapter 2 Education Rules (School Schedules) requires districts to submit their requests to the Wyoming Department of Education for subsequent State Board of Education approval between January 1 and April 1 each year.
Statutory/Rules Reference:
- W.S. 21-2-304(b)(viii) and 21-4-301
- Education Rules, Chapter 2: School Schedules
For more information, contact Brenna Harris, Education Consultant – Private School Licensing, at brenna.harris@wyo.gov or 307-777-6210.
