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Education Laws and Regulations

603 CMR 27.00:

Student Learning Time

Section:

  • 27.01: Scope and Purpose
  • 27.02: Definitions
  • 27.03: School Year Requirements
  • 27.04: Structured Learning Time Requirements
  • 27.05: Early Release of High School Seniors
  • 27.06: Waivers or Modifications
  • 27.07: Implementation
  • 27.08: Health and Safety Standards during a State of Emergency or Other Exigent Circumstances
  • View All Sections

Most Recently Amended by the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education: May 25, 2021

27.03: School Year Requirements

(1) Prior to the beginning of each school year, every school committee shall establish school year schedules for each of the public schools under its supervision and control, based on the particular learning needs of students within each school. In determining the school year schedule for each school, the school committee shall be guided by the student learning time plan recommended by the school council for each school, and shall attempt to maximize high quality teaching, learning, and professional development opportunities.

(2) Every school committee shall schedule a school year which includes at least 185 school days at each elementary, middle, and secondary school within the school district.

(3) Every school committee shall operate the schools within its district at least 180 school days in a school year.

(4) School committees are encouraged to exceed the minimum number of school days wherever possible, and to offer extended day and extended year programs that expand student learning opportunities.

(5) A school committee may establish a separate school year and school day schedule for kindergarten programs which it maintains pursuant to the Board Regulations for 603 CMR 8.00: Kindergartens: Minimum School Age, so long as it provides a minimum of 425 annual hours of structured learning time. In those school districts which schedule two sessions of kindergarten daily, the school committee shall adopt a schedule for its kindergarten programs which ensures equal instructional time for all kindergarten students.

Regulatory Authority:
603 CMR 27.00: M.G.L. c. 69, s.1G; M.G.L. c. 69, s. 1B.

Disclaimer:
 For an official copy of these regulations, please contact the State House Bookstore, at 617-727-2834 or visit Massachusetts State Bookstore.

Last Updated: November 14, 2022

 
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