As a member of the Monongalia county community and a parent of pupils attending one of the local schools, my personal struggle with the necessity of rest is shared by many. The need for more rest is a popular sentiment among students, teachers, and parents alike. Our five-day school week is not merely exhausting the students but also deterring their full participation in other important activities like family time, hobbies and rest time. Studies show that shorter week increases productivity and wellbeing among students and can be beneficial to the overall school environment (National Education Association).

Presently, over 25% of school districts in Colorado, New Mexico and Wyoming have adopted a four-day school week and show better academic performance and substantial cost savings (Education Commission of the States). Therefore, we must consider this for Monongalia county schools too. We urge the county and school district harmoniously to revisit the standard five-day school week and possibly consider the benefits of a four-day school week. Please sign our petition to encourage this much-needed change.