Courtesy art

ALPENA – On Monday, during its regular meeting, the APS Board of Education approved a change to the school year calendar. Friday, May 22, which was originally scheduled as a day off for students and staff, will now be a regular day of work and instruction.

State law requires us to provide 180 days of instruction. While the law allows for six forgiven days annually and an appeal process for three additional days, we have exhausted all available options. As a result, we are required to make up this date and potentially six others, depending on decisions from the state legislature and the governor.

We are currently awaiting a final decision from the state regarding the number of days that may be forgiven following the recent ice storm. Legislators are considering various bills to determine forgiveness for schools across the state. Once the legislature and the governor provide official direction, we will finalize and announce the official last day of school.

We apologize for any inconvenience this and any potential upcoming schedule changes may cause you and your family. We understand the frustration of having to adjust your schedule, especially since planning is difficult without a confirmed end-of-year date. We appreciate your continued patience and flexibility as we navigate these state-level requirements.

We will share the final plan for the remainder of the school year as soon as more information becomes available.