Maroon Staff and Families,
As we prepare for the start of another exciting school year, I want to share an important update regarding a recent change in Oklahoma law that affects elementary school schedules.
During the recent session, Oklahoma lawmakers passed legislation increasing the required daily recess time for elementary students to 40 minutes each day. The legislation also changes how recess counts toward required instructional time. This school year, districts may count 20 of the required 40 minutes of daily recess as instructional time. Starting in 2027-2028, recess will no longer count toward required instructional hours.
I want to reassure our families that Perry Public Schools will not need to adjust the start or end times of the school day for the 2026-2027 school year. Our administrative team has worked diligently throughout the summer to redesign elementary schedules that fully comply with the new state requirements while maintaining the current school day. We are grateful for their thoughtful planning and commitment to providing the best possible learning experience for our students.
As we look ahead, we do anticipate that additional instructional minutes may be required beginning in the 2027-2028 school year when the temporary transition period expires. We will continue to monitor guidance from the Oklahoma State Department of Education and communicate any future changes well in advance so families have ample time to prepare.
At Perry Public Schools, our priority remains providing a high-quality education while creating an environment where students can learn, grow, and thrive. We appreciate your continued support and partnership as we adapt to new state requirements and remain focused on what matters most - our students' success.
We are looking forward to a fantastic school year and can't wait to welcome our students back to campus.
Sincerely,
Chad Wilson
Superintendent
Perry Public Schools