A northern Michigan school district is putting a new twist on the debate about how long students should be in class each year.
Atlanta Community Schools switched to a four-day school week when its new semester began in late January.
The move was initially proposed as a way to save money. Administrators say it might also have academic benefits and early signs indicate attendance is improving.
Students are in class for the same number of hours as they were during a five-day week.
Michigan law requires nearly 1,100 hours of annual school instruction but doesn't specify a number of days for classes to be in session.
Most districts will be required to meet at least 165 days starting next year, among the lowest standards in the nation.