With many school districts in the country adopting a four day school week for various reasons, Ashland teacher Mark Reimer has proposed to do the same to address the teacher shortage and boost morale, citing its success in other rural districts. This could also improve attendance and academic performance through increased planning time. While Board Vice President Shelly Baiter and teacher Marie McFarlane voiced concerns about meals and childcare, Reimer and a committee he formed plans to develop a unique Ashland model, incorporating community feedback and learning from other districts with $6,500 in approved research funds. Findings are due in February.