IPS To Delay Classes 2 Hours After Super Bowl
School System Feels Decision Is Compromise
Posted: 02/02/2010
Last Updated:
1207 days ago
Indiana's largest school district will delay classes by two hours on the day after the Super Bowl.Indianapolis Public Schools announced the decision Tuesday as speculation built about what the school system would do.
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Officials had been weighing whether to have classes as scheduled or cancel classes for the day."We want to make sure that we came up with a compromise that puts education first by having the school day, while at the same time recognizing that, for staff members that have to be at work by 5:30 (a.m.), it could be really difficult, since the game starts (late)," said IPS spokeswoman Mary Louise Bewley.In 2007, IPS was forced to cancel classes the day after the Super Bowl because too many bus drivers did not pick up children."A two-hour delay provides a compromise that ensures our children will arrive at school safely," said Superintendent Dr. Eugene White. "Children need to be in school, but this is a unique situation that doesn't happen every year. The delay will allow our families and staff to cheer on our home team and focus on the business of education."The district will also waive its dress code on Friday to allow staff and students to take part in the celebration of Blue Friday."Students will be allowed to wear jeans, jerseys and other clothing that supports the Colts," Bewley said. "Clothing still must be appropriate for school."Parents on Tuesday had mixed opinions about the decision."I think this is a little more important than some of the reasons they've missed, so to me it's worth it, being a Colts fan," said Don Moon."Not being a football fan, I think it's kind of ridiculous," said Mary Jo DeMyer. "My son danced in 'The Nutcracker' and they wouldn't give him an excused absence for that, and yet they're delaying school for two hours because of a football game."The Archdiocese of Indianapolis announced last week that Catholic schools will not be in session on the day after the Super Bowl.Many other public schools, such as Carmel-Clay, Washington Township, Hamilton Southeastern, Zionsville, Westfield and Brownsburg, told 6News they will have class on Monday.