KRWG News – SANTA FE, N.M. (KRWG) Lawmakers may give public schools more time to implement a requirement for a 180-day school year.
A 2009 law will require a school year of at least 180 full instructional days for districts with a regular school year calendar. It's to take effect in the upcoming 2011-2012 school year.
But the House approved a bill Wednesday on a 44-24 vote to delay the requirement to the 2012-13 school year. The measure goes to the Senate.
Students in grades 7-12 currently must attend school 1,080 hours. However, that can be accomplished in fewer than 180 days, depending on the length of the school day.
With the state and schools facing budget problems, supporters say the proposed delay will help avoid extra costs for more instructional days.
Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. KRWG