To the editor:

I would like to add my voice to that of Kim Kastl (Public Forum, Aug. 20) concerning the early starting date in our school district. In talking with fellow parents of elementary students, I have yet to find one who agrees with this policy. The main complaint is that it interferes with family vacations and other summer activities. But more importantly, the current summer break schedule wastes resources and money at a time when our school district can least afford it.

This year, summer break began May 24 and ended Aug. 12. It is foolish and extravagant to close schools early, during the mild month of May, and open them early, during one of the hottest months of the year. Heating and cooling requirements in May and early June are minimal, while they can be very high during August in Kansas (especially with a heat wave like we’ve just experienced).

How much money could have been saved in air-conditioning costs if we had our old summer schedule, which shifts the break so it ends just after Labor Day? Many school districts across the nation still use this schedule. I’m not sure what motivated the change to an earlier date in our district, but energy conservation and budget concerns mandate that we reconsider.

Our school board and administrators need to demonstrate that they are doing everything possible to conserve money and resources in our district, especially after closing three elementary schools and cutting staff, services and curricula due to the current budget crisis.

Sharon Dewey,

Lawrence