Friday Late Start for DCSD Middle Schools
During the 2026–27 school year, all DCSD middle schools start 45 minutes later every Friday. This dedicated time gives teachers an opportunity to collaborate in Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) to strengthen instruction and better support students.
Why the Friday late start?
This weekly collaboration time allows teachers to:
- Analyze student learning across classes
- Align instruction and expectations
- Respond more quickly when students need support
This leads to more consistent, effective instruction for students.
What Families Told Us
Before implementing the Friday late start, DCSD surveyed families about how the schedule change could affect them.
✔ Most families said the schedule would work for them
Two-thirds of survey respondents said a 45-minute late start would not impact attendance.
✔ Added flexibility for some families
Nearly one-third said the later start could help with scheduling appointments.