Principals, teachers oppose 3 p.m. dismissal for younger elementary students

Associations representing elementary school principals and teachers have opposed the National Educational Commission’s plan to keep younger elementary students at school until 3 p.m., calling it undesirable.

The Korea Elementary School Education Principal’s Association on Wednesday urged the committee to reconsider requiring all first- and second-graders to finish school late, warning the plan could disrupt existing school programs and may not be in the best interests of young children.

This follows the committee’s announcement on Tuesday that it would seek public feedback on a proposal to extend the school day for younger students. Currently, younger students leave school at around 1 p.m.

The association, which represents principals from more than 6,100 public and private elementary schools across the country, said in a statement that policymakers must first consider whether it is truly in students’ best interests.

“Early elementary years are an important period when children need a balance of classroom learning, play, rest, physical activity, interaction with their peers and family time,” it said.

The Elementary School Teachers' Union on Tuesday also issued a statement opposing the proposal, saying any decision should prioritize younger students’ developmental needs and a proper balance between learning and rest.

Meanwhile, the NEC will hold a joint policy forum on Thursday with the National Assembly Futures Institute, the Korean Educational Development Institute and other organizations to discuss the proposed extension.