Short summer break for some Southwest Florida schools

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Fla. – School is almost out for summer, but not for as long as some have hoped. The Charlotte County School District will start classes two weeks ahead of schedule in August.

By beginning school early, students will be able to take their finals before winter break. In the past, finals would be given soon after the three week break.

“My daughter happens to be one of the kids that struggles with test anxiety,” said Tammy Hill, “so I believe that being able to give her a stress free vacation and allowing her mind to rest, so that when they come back from break, they are ready to start fresh again.”

A district wide survey found 56 percent of parents and 64 percent of teachers wanted an early start date. But still not everyone agrees.

“There are people that aren’t happy,” said Mike Riley, Charlotte County Schools spokesman, “there are people who think it’s not right to change.”

Many parents in Lee County were frustrated the early start date would ruin summer plans. So the Lee County School Board decided to keep their original August 24 start date.

Students in Collier County will also have a short summer break, they’ll head back August 17.