Parents invited to forums on early dismissal plan

Clayton Public Schools has scheduled nine 90-minute public forums at which the school community—particularly parents—can learn about a plan to release students early every Wednesday.

"There also will be a chance for parents to express their concerns and ask questions," the district said in announcing the forums, which are planned for Aug. 14 at 6:00 pm.

Superintendent Edmond Heatley's early release plan, designed would make time for teacher training and development, has been criticized by parents and school board members who say it was proposed too late in the school year, without sufficient input from parents. The school board voted Monday to delay the plan until Heatley had engaged in further community outreach.

Parents of high school students should attend the forum at their child's school, the district said. Middle and elementary school parents should go to the high school that their children would eventually attend.