Upper Darby, Pa. – The Upper Darby School District has entered the early research phase of a four‑day school week. Superintendent Dr. Daniel McGarry said the initiative aims to both retain existing teachers and attract new educators, while also improving instructional time for students.
Why the district is looking at a shorter week
“Teacher recruitment and retention is a concern,” McGarry told Action News. He noted that the district has seen a recent decline in teacher turnover, calling it “the fewest amount of teachers that we’ve lost in a year.” Still, the superintendent warned that the district cannot rely on that trend alone and must explore creative solutions.
McGarry emphasized the financial reality facing many suburban districts: “We’re never going to be able to financially compete with wealthier school districts who by the very nature of their zip code can pay their teachers better than we can pay them.” The four‑day model is being examined as a way to make Upper Darby more competitive without raising taxes.
Committee work and proposed schedule
The school board formed the Act 80 Exploration Committee, which includes staff, students and community members, to evaluate options. After reviewing several scenarios, the committee narrowed its focus to a plan that would keep four days of in‑person instruction and use a fifth “flex” day for at‑home assignments or other learning activities.
McGarry said the proposal is still in the exploratory stage: “I support the idea of exploring it. I have to get myself to a place to understand how we can make sure that we’re doing right for all the kids and the staff.” He added that no recommendation has been made and that any change would require public agreement.
Community reactions
Parents voiced mixed opinions when asked about the potential shift. Nicole Norman wondered how a three‑day weekend would affect families who work Monday‑Friday. Ala Uddin, whose wife is a stay‑at‑home parent, said a four‑day week would be “better.” Garmai Gray‑Smith expressed a preference for the traditional five‑day schedule.
McGarry acknowledged the concerns, noting that a shorter week would raise questions about childcare, school‑provided meals for students who rely on them, and special‑education services. “The board had a lot of questions. I want to be clear that nothing has been approved, nothing has been adopted,” he said.
Next steps
The committee will reconvene with the board in March to present additional research and a more detailed outline of how a four‑day week could function in Upper Darby. Until then, the district will continue to monitor teacher turnover, community feedback and the fiscal impact of any potential schedule change.
Upper Darby residents are encouraged to stay informed through board meetings and public comment periods as the district works toward a decision that balances educational quality, family needs and fiscal responsibility.
Original reporting: Allentown News – 6abc Philadelphia — read the source article.
