No School November

Students and teachers at Charlotte Catholic are experiencing fewer full school days due to breaks and early dismissals throughout November. Between the senior retreat, multiple early dismissals, and the week-long Thanksgiving break, everyone is adjusting to a busier schedule. 

Seniors will leave campus for their retreat on November 10th and return later that day. Soon after, all grades will be dismissed early on November 14th, 20th, and 21st. The month concludes with the week-long Thanksgiving break from November 24th to 28th. These interruptions force students and staff to adapt their routines and plans. 

This year, the unusually high number of half days and breaks stems from decisions made at the district level. According to Mrs. Danser, the district office chose to extend Thanksgiving to a full week off, and the half days were scheduled around that break. “Fewer days can make teachers feel stressed and pushed to cover all the material before exams,” she said. She noted that block scheduling during half days allows teachers to be less crammed, and even give tests. 

Credit: Charlotte Catholic High School

For students like sophomore Ava Hoegh-Guldberg, the shorter weeks bring positive opportunities. “I am looking forward to all the free time I will have outside of school,” Ava said. She explained that extra days off help her keep up with schoolwork and feel more relaxed. “I use my free time for both relaxing and catching up on school, depending on how much work I have,” she added. Although the frequent breaks may slightly lower her academic motivation at times, she said they do not affect her ability to complete assignments. 

Teachers face a different set of challenges, but they prepare accordingly. Ms. Carden, who teaches Advanced English 10, said November’s schedule requires adjustments. “November’s shorter schedule slightly complicates my planning, but having a block schedule during our half days helps a lot,” she said. She shifted some quizzes and project deadlines but believes students will still master the material. “I always post a weekly agenda on Canvas to help students stay organized and prepared,” Ms. Carden added, emphasizing that clear communication makes a big difference when time is limited. 

With the compressed calendar, students look forward to the extra free time, teachers carefully adjust their lesson plans, and administrators work to keep everything running smoothly. November at Charlotte Catholic shows how school calendar decisions affect the entire community. Planning, flexibility, and clear communication help everyone make the most of this busy month.