Press Release: Tuesday, January 23rd, 2024
Statement from De Queen Public Schools Regarding 2024-2025 School Calendar
With the abundance of public attention and discussion centering on the passage of school calendars around our area, De Queen Public Schools would like to take this time to reassure our Leopard Family of the process our Board of Directors takes with school calendar decisions. Recently, we have heard some concerns from parents and members of our community, and we intend to clear up any confusion or rumors that may be present in our community.
With the passage of Act 688 in 2021, Arkansas public schools now have flexibility in how each district chooses to reach the 178 school-day structure required by law. Some districts have transitioned to a four-day week structure, and a few are adopting a hybrid year-round school calendar for the 2024-2025 school year.
During the fall semester, our administrators and board members researched the alternative calendar options, listened to viewpoints from our teachers and staff, held discussions with local partners, and heard from parents and guardians in our Leopard Family. After much thought and deliberation, the De Queen Public Schools Board of Directors accepted the recommendation from Superintendent Sanders to continue in the 2024-2025 school year with the same traditional school calendar that has led to a tradition of student success for our Leopard Family and community.
We understand that every community is different, and what may work in one community may not be best for our students, families, and community stakeholders. Our administrators and board of directors have a solid record of consistently placing student success at the forefront of any decision. They will stay committed to doing what is best for the students, teachers, staff, families, and community members that make up our Leopard Family!