The first day of the 2021-22 school year for Mars Area students is Aug. 25, according to the district calendar approved by the school board Tuesday.

For teachers, school starts Aug. 19.

“That will be our kick-off,” said Mark Gross, superintendent. “Followed by three days of in-service days.”

The calendar has nine in-service days for teachers; four Act 80 days; and 13 vacation days built into it. Nov. 11 and 12 are tentative parent conference days.

Thanksgiving break is scheduled for Nov. 25 through 29. The winter holiday is Dec. 23 through 31 for students.

“A very typical look, as far as the calendar we have,” Gross said.

That doesn't mean everything in next year's district calendar is the same.

For one thing, Mars Area has decided all snow days will be remote learning days.

They are poised to replace Flexible Instructional Days (FIDs), according to Gross.

Pennsylvania has used FIDs to help districts meet the 180 days of school requirement without physically being in class.

In 2019, Mars Area took advantage of FIDs to allow students to access schoolwork online when classes couldn't be held due to inclement weather or emergencies. The district at that time was limited to five FIDs per year by the state.

With virtual education making huge strides as districts adapt to the pandemic, Gross said FIDs may be a casualty of a bygone era.

“We have the technology,” Gross said. “We're going to continue to recommend that our snow days be remote.”

Gross said the Pennsylvania Department of Education recognizes remote learning days as acceptable alternatives to FIDs for now.

Gross noted that could change as the pandemic progresses. FIDs may return in the future. The district continues to stay tuned to state guidance.

“Just like anything else,” Gross said.

The last school day for students and graduation will be May 26, 2022. The last day of school for teachers will be May 27, 2022.