More work, less swimming! Chicago has one of the shortest school days and school years in the country. According to Rahms website, Chicago students are a full grade level behind their Boston peers because Chicago students are in the classroom one hour less. Emanuel believes that until learning time is extended, Chicago students won’t dramatically improve.  Increased learning time will include academic, arts and sports programs beyond the traditional school day.

Science teacher, Theresa Dzoga- Borg believes that we should have a longer school year and day. She said, “Schools do more then just academics; there’s also social and physical growth with longer school days”. She said that since there’s a lot of four day weeks, schools should have longer hours and students who are on track should be let out early.

Emanuel wants to give parents the legal power to transform their child’s school. The transformation can only take place if the school is failing and the parents sign a petition. A new school operator can take over, certain administrative changes can take place, or it can be shut down.

President of the LSC, Judy Vasquez, supports this reform. She believes that when the parents are involved they have more control over the student’s progress. She said, “Teachers need to be evaluated and students need to be guided."

Another one of Emanuel's initiatives will be consequences for students who drop out. Emanuel wants to revoke the driver’s license of any student who drops out of high school.

Junior Rebecca Alamo believes Emanuel shouldn’t revoke the license of any student. She said “I don’t think its right because students get pregnant. They have to get a job to support their family and taking the bus is too expensive. The mother is put in a position where she’s late all the time and in the cold with her baby."

Students should be prepared for next school year's changes. Longer school days, power to the parents, and drop out consequences are all part of Rahm Emanuel's plan.