In the Highland Community School District in eastern Iowa, Fridays have gone quiet—but the learning hasn't. While the four-day school week was once considered potentially a radical experiment, it has quickly become a cherished way of life. Highland’s Superintendent Spencer Lueders explained it was part of what attracted him to the district. “In my role as superintendent, having that extra day to get caught up in all matters is crucial. Our staff thoroughly enjoy the extra day of professional development, but also have time to work within their classroom settings. Ultimately, our students really love having the four-day week.”
Senior Brayden Zywiec explains. “It’s a lot easier on my schedule. I’ve definitely seen a big improvement in my ability to get my school work done; having that extra day on Friday to do homework or to hang out with my friends.”
This shift helps younger students, as well.
“When we changed to four days, I became a lot more prepared for the week because I had an extra day to reflect on the week I had before and be ready for Monday, ” shared Niya, a Highland seventh-grader.
But the "quiet" on Friday is only possible because of the noise, energy, and intentionality packed into Monday through Thursday. By extending the school day slightly, Highland has created a more focused academic environment where every minute counts.
Maximizing the Minutes
High School English Teacher Jim Higden appreciates the daily student engagement. “The 52-minute period works really good for having a longer discussion of things and longer time working on projects,” he said. Teachers report deeper dives into curriculum and a student body that arrives each morning refreshed and ready to work. It isn't about doing less—it’s about doing things better with the time they have.
Band Director Andrew McDonald believes students learn faster. “One of the things that I noticed when we moved to the four-day week and I got to see the band every day is that it takes less time to learn music."
"We are getting through things much more quickly because we are seeing it every single day, even if it’s in smaller increments.”
Brayden agrees. “Research has shown that 60 minutes is the best amount of time to have a class. I’ve noticed that it’s where I’m able to focus on that subject and not be bored,” said Brayden.
Due Diligence: From Research to Results
This four-day decision wasn't left to chance. Before the first Friday was ever cleared from the calendar, the district embarked on a months-long journey of research and outreach. Highland Assistant Principal Bill Zywiec helped lead the process. “We spent a lot of time gathering resources from other schools that had already implemented the four-day week. We presented that material to our staff, our student body, and those findings to our parents."
"It wasn’t just one quick decision. It was a decision that took us months, making sure it was going to be a good fit for our district, and making sure that we had the support within our school district and community.”
A Culture of Connection
It was this groundwork that turned skepticism into "buy-in," setting the stage for the culture shift that followed. “One thing that I think that we really do here is the adults model positive relationships for the kids,” said Highland School Counselor Peg Schwab. “I think creating an authentic work environment and letting them see that amongst adults helps, and I believe that Friday alone time probably aids in that.”
Lueders credits the four-day week for attracting families to the district.
“It’s different maybe from what they’re used to and they also get some more family time over the weekend. It’s important for everyone to know that we’re always continuing to learn. People that have been part of that four-day week before are continuing to evolve and we want to do the same.”
What began as an experiment in time management has evolved into a cornerstone of the Highland identity. By reclaiming their Fridays, the district hasn't just shortened the week; they’ve lengthened the horizon for what’s possible in rural education. As other districts across the state and country look for ways to combat burnout and increase engagement, Highland stands as a quiet, successful proof of concept. In this corner of Eastern Iowa, the "radical experiment" is no longer an experiment at all—it’s just the way they grow.
This story is part of The Iowa Way: Strong Schools, Stronger Communities — A celebration of Iowa public education, presented by School Administrators of Iowa.
To read other inspiring stories, visit lead.sai-iowa.org/theiowaway.