Public schools would possibly open in mid-August this year, two weeks earlier than usual, because the Miami-Dade District would like to organize more class time before critical standardized testing takes place.

This proposal is part of a negotiation with the United Teachers of Dade, whose contract necessitates the Union and the School Board agreeing on what the school calendar will be. Miami-Dade and Broward started the current school year on Aug. 26 while Duvall County and Pinellas County stared theirs on Aug. 7, almost three weeks sooner.

Starting school earlier would also enable teachers to go over a significant amount of information in class before testing begins. This is crucial, considering the amount of stress to pass the FCAT that most teachers and students have. “When midterms come around I feel rushed because we are just getting back from winter break and have so much cramming to do,” said senior Shira Jaffe.

Additionally, the early start will give more preparation for the Advanced Placement exams and other spring-semester tests.

“I think that this sounds like an idea that would have a good effect in the future,” said junior Jessica Leslie.

The main concern of some parents and students is that they have signed up for summer programs, which are not refundable. Many believe it is unfair to propose an early start so late in the school year.

The voting has been taken off the table until the Union finishes negotiating with their step pay raise. If the matter is not solved, this new calender will not go into affect until the 2004 school year.