Montgomery Co. To Form Work Group On Longer School Days

ROCKVILLE, Md. (AP) -- Montgomery County education officials are forming a work group to recommend ways to use extra class time proposed for elementary school students.

Schools Superintendent Joshua P. Starr has proposed lengthening the school day for elementary school students by 30 minutes, with dismissals at either 3:35 p.m. or 4 p.m.

The Washington Post reports that Larry Bowers, the school district's chief operating officer, says officials are forming a work group to discuss how best to use that time.

That group is expected to meet for several months before issuing recommendations.

Bowers says the superintendent wants to broaden children's opportunities, with options including foreign language and technology.

Dozens of people have signed a petition calling for elementary school dismissals no later than 3:30 p.m.

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