Just like many parents, I often face the choice of paying excessive amounts for holiday trips during non-term periods or risk penalties and detrimental effects on our children's education. This has not only placed a financial burden on us but also obstructed us from spending quality time together as a family. This situation demand change - for the benefits of both parents and teachers who face the same hardship.

Studies shows that family trips can foster stronger emotional bonds, enhance children’s development and learning, and reduce stress for both parents and children. Unfortunately, the existing school holiday scheduling in our community has limited many families from reaping these benefits.

School holidays are currently scheduled at peak tourist seasons, resulting in a drastic hike in travel and accommodation prices. This situation has compelled parents to either pay inflated prices or pull their kids out of school during term time. A study by FairFX found that holiday prices can rise up to 115% during school holidays. This premium pricing model has led to an increasing number of parents being fined for children's unauthorised absences, with the Council issuing 52,370 penalties last year alone (BBC News, 2019).

This situation not only puts undue financial burden on families, but also could decrease student performance; a comprehensive report by Johns Hopkins University found that irregular attendance can have serious implications for students' academic outcomes.

A change in policy to scatter school holidays throughout the year would not only ease the financial pressure on families but would also reduce overcrowding in tourist destinations, offer teachers more flexibility, and lessen the impact on education caused by unauthorised absences.

On behalf of all parents and teachers, we call for a thoughtful reexamination and restructuring of the school holiday system. Such reform can ensure that family holidays are a restful leisure activity that everyone can afford without adverse effects on our children's education. Please sign this petition to urge our local school boards and government to reconsider the current school holiday schedules.