By Tara Fischer

Staff Writer

(March 12, 2026) The online petition expressing dissatisfaction with the Worcester County Board of Education’s 2026-27 school year calendar hit 644 verified signatures on Tuesday.

Whether that’s enough to get the school board to reconsider the calendar — and address the major complaint of school starting before Labor Day — remains to be seen.

In February, the board approved a first day of school on Aug. 31, an untraditional pre-Labor Day start.

The plan includes staggered professional development days, with elementary and high schools closed on the same days. On alternative dates, Berlin Intermediate School, Cedar Chapel Special School, and all three area middle schools will be closed for students.

“For many years, families in Worcester have enjoyed the tradition of beginning the school year after Labor Day,” the petition reads. “This not only aligns with the community’s values but also offers numerous benefits, including extended family vacations, opportunities for seasonal employment, and ample time for necessary childcare arrangements.”

Economic impact and tourism were noted as considerations, specifically that local businesses may benefit from an extended summer as families frequent restaurants and attractions. The August start can also limit how many students can finish out their seasonal jobs, leaving establishments short-staffed.

Officials said that school will begin in August because Labor Day falls late this year  — Sept. 7 — and a Sept. 8 start would not leave enough days to accommodate all that needs to get done.

The petition also takes issue with the professional development model.

“The current practice of staggered days off — where elementary schools are closed while middle schools remain open, and vice versa— creates significant hardship for working parents,” the petition page says. “Families with children in multiple schools are forced to secure additional childcare, take unpaid leave, or juggle conflicting schedules. A more unified calendar would better support family stability and workforce participation.”

The petition can be found online at https://www.change.org/p/urge-worcester-county-board-to-start-school-after-labor-day.

Petition starter Kaitlyn Jarvi has asked on the online forum for anyone opposed to the approved calendar to make their voices heard at the March 17 Worcester County Board of Education meeting. The open session will begin at 12:30 p.m.