— A new state law, House Bill 360, passed by the Alabama Legislature earlier this month may mean local school officials have to shorten holiday breaks in the upcoming school year.

The first day for student instruction can be no earlier than the Monday two weeks prior to Labor Day — Aug 20. The last day for student instruction must be no later than Friday immediately preceding Memorial Day — May 24, 2013.

The state-required student school year must include a minimum of 180 instructional days based on a minimum of six hours of instruction per day or its hourly equivalent of 1,080 hours exclusive of lunch, recess and class change — meaning some school boards may choose to extend the school day. 

The law is in effect for the 2012-2013 school year and the first three months of the 2013-2014 school year.

During a webinar Thursday, State Superintendent Tommy Bice presented school officials with a mock calendar. The mock calendar shortens Thanksgiving and Christmas breaks and eliminates many one-day holidays. Memorial Day and Veterans Day are the only mandatory holidays.

Bice along with Jefferson County Board of Education attorney Whit Colvin recommended officials use the 180-day calendar. “I am recommending that you hold firm to the 180-day school year,” Bice said in the webinar. He said the extended day presents a number of issues for schools such as salary schedules, handbooks and overtime issues.

During Thursday’s board meeting, Athens Superintendent Orman Bridges Jr. said he agrees with the recommendation and plans to maintain the 180-day calendar. Although, he said the first semester may be shorter than the second semester.

Bridges said there is also an effort to coordinate with the Limestone County Schools system.

Bridges said the Athens regular meeting would take place June 7. However, they may call a special meeting to approve the calendar before that time. He said he would like to approve it as quick as possible.

Limestone County School officials will meet June 5.

Athens School board President Russell Johnson said a number of parents have called concerned about the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, which is normally a holiday, but may have to be cut in the new calendar.

Bridges said there are options and he is going to see what the board feels comfortable with.

Supporters of the law say it will boost tourism and tax collections in the state by approximately $22 million.

Gov. Robert Bentley recently vetoed the bill, but the Legislature voted last week to override Bentley’s request.