A Midweek Pause: The Pros and Cons of No-School Wednesdays By: Katie Ho

The concept of no-school Wednesdays has recently surfaced in the media as a possible change for future school schedules. After Covid, a rise in digital/virtual days surfaced in schedules for schools worldwide. Other alternatives include “no-day Wednesdays.” While many are on board with the idea of no-school Wednesdays, there are cons to the idea.

No-school Wednesdays are when schools are closed on Wednesdays. This idea is mainly to promote motivation, time to complete assignments, a workday for teachers, and overall act as a beneficial opportunity for both students and faculty. Allaya Snelson, a Senior at Hillgrove High School, stated, “I feel like one benefit could be like to give students time to rest, catch up on assignments, that way it can, like, manage their stress and so that they don't become overwhelmed.” Suggesting that no-school Wednesdays can possibly act as an opportunity for students to rest, catch up, and manage stress. Ashley Hoang, a Senior at Peachtree Ridge High School, stated, “Knowing that there is a break between, like, you know, on Wednesday, I don't have to worry about my sleep schedule.” She added, “So, I feel like I would be more motivated to, like, study and like go to school.” Expressing how a no-school Wednesday would help her feel more motivated and would act as a benefit for her.

However, behind the benefits for non-school Wednesdays, cons follow behind. While non-school Wednesdays can act as a significant opportunity for students, parents on the other hand are affected differently. While students are at school, parents can work easily. However, a sudden change in school schedules may leave parents stranded, trying to find last-minute babysitters for their children. “I think they should notify the parents that they are gonna add this policy, like, months before. So, they will know and just knowing the schedule before they add the policy makes it Smoother.” Ashley Hoang suggested, stating how schools should notify parents before any sudden changes. This suggestion gives parents time to plan beforehand, making Wednesdays stress-free.

Overall, non-school Wednesdays offer both a mix of benefits and cons. While the idea can give students and faculty an opportunity to complete any missing assignments, it creates challenges for parents and their work. The question of whether non-school Wednesdays should be added to calendars is up to school boards; it is certain that the idea serves both beneficial and negative characteristics.