On Friday, August 19, a message went out to PHS staff, students and parents announcing the change to early release days. During the last two years, school on Wednesdays ended one or two hours early so staff could complete professional development during the remaining time. 

Now the four shortened days of the month will turn into one shortened day — the first Wednesday of each month. School will be dismissed at 12:30 p.m., a change approved this month by the Indiana Department of Education which will enable staff to complete three hours of professional development.

“The Covid Pandemic has caused learning loss nationwide. Teachers at Paoli Community Schools will receive professional development that assists them with creating lessons to help close the learning gaps we are currently seeing in education,” said Assistant Superintendent Sherry Wise. 

While the last few hours of the day will be used for professional development for staff, the first half of the day will be spent teaching students skills they can use in everyday life as well as giving students a chance to have a good time. 

A committee was formed over the summer to plan the activities students will participate in during the early release days. History teacher Chris Lindley, eighth grade science teacher Lori Stroud and English teacher Carol Eubank are spearheading the group and have already planned out what will take place for each day this year.

“Our first [early release] day [activity] is all about belonging, teamwork and building a sense of fun and enthusiasm back into our school. Other days deal with career and college goals, activities like Speech Contest and real world needs like budgeting, car insurance, etc. Students can expect that these days will be unlike any school days they have ever had!” said Lindley.

The early release days for the 2022-2023 school year are as follows: September 7, October 5, November 2, December 7, January 4, February 1, March 1, April 5 and May 3.