- Question
Should the U.S. mandate year-round education?
Year-round school in the U.S is neither a new concept nor an unusual one. Traditional school calendars and year-round schedules both provide students with about 180 days in the classroom. But instead of taking off much of the summertime, year-round school programs take a series of shorter breaks throughout the year. Should this model be mandated by the government?
Yes, the U.S should have year-round education
This position holds that the US should mandate year-round education. It argues that a continuous schedule helps students retain what they learn — avoiding the summer 'slide' — and that it would help close the achievement gap for minority students and students with disabilities.
No, the U.S should not have year-round education
Opponents say year-round schooling hasn't proven to be as effective as its advocates claim. Some experts claim that such schedules make it more difficult for healthy development in students and to plan family vacations and finances.