Jefferson County Adopts Four-Day School Week

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The Jefferson County School District in Idaho has unanimously approved a move to a four-day school week starting next academic year. The decision follows surveys showing broad support from parents and teachers, with the district citing benefits like increased class time and professional development opportunities for educators.

Why it matters

The shift to a four-day school week is a growing trend in Idaho and other states, as districts look to balance budgets, accommodate family schedules, and provide more time for teacher training and student interventions. Jefferson County's decision as the second-largest district to make this change highlights the tradeoffs and potential benefits of this model.

The details

Under the new schedule, Jefferson County's elementary students will attend school from 8:15 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. Monday through Thursday, while middle and high schoolers will be in class from 8 a.m. to 3:55 p.m. Fridays will be reserved for teacher professional development and collaboration. The district's 6,554 students currently have early release on Fridays, and surveys showed 68% of teachers support the four-day week.

• The Jefferson County School Board unanimously approved the four-day week at its regular meeting on February 13, 2026.
• The new schedule will take effect at the start of the 2026-2027 academic year.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The district will finalize the new school start and end times over the coming months to accommodate busing schedules. Teachers will also begin planning for the additional professional development time on Fridays.