Snow days are a topical issue in recent years. Snow days were previously uncommon, but now students can expect to have multiple days out of school each year because of the snow. Because of this, various solutions were presented including Alternative Methods of Instruction days or AMI. AMI days allow for class to carry on outside of school without having to make up missed days. However, under the LEARNS Act AMI days are no longer used. 

     Kayla Davis from 5News says, “The Arkansas LEARNS Act says a public school district must be open for on-site, in-person instruction for at least 178 days, or 1068 hours, to get funding from the state for teacher’s salaries. It essentially ends AMI days.”

     So while school can continue during snow days, attendance will not be counted essentially rendering it useless. However, some students believe that AMI days are still more beneficial for students. 

     “I definitely prefer AMI days because I think it’s just an easier way for students to get their work done instead of adding on the days at the end of the year. The days at the end of the year aren’t going to help AP students or seniors because they have limited time to learn what they need to in their courses and so I think AMI days would be a lot easier and beneficial for them,” says student Ava Sicard. 

     With the growth of technology usage in schools and continued snow and ice in Arkansas expect for snow days to be a continued topic of discussion. One thing is certain: learning will persevere whether through AMI days or adding extra days throughout the year.