Fredericktown, Mo. (KFMO) - The Fredericktown School District is adjusting its approach to Alternative Methods of Instruction (AMI) days following further review of Missouri’s education statutes. In an update from Superintendent Dr. Shannon Henson, families were informed that while the district initially believed it was limited to five AMI days, state law actually allows for a sixth.
The change comes as the district works to maximize funding opportunities under Senate Bill 727, which provides additional operating funds for schools using a 169-day student attendance calendar. For Fredericktown, this could mean an extra $80,000 in revenue next year, with that amount doubling to $160,000 when the special funding percentage increases to 2%.
After January’s ice storm forced the use of all five allotted AMI days, Dr. Henson confirmed that a sixth AMI packet will be distributed to students. However, this packet will only be utilized if another weather-related closure occurs and administrators determine the number of makeup days is excessive. If AMI Packet 6 is implemented, the district will notify families through official cancellation announcements.
Dr. Henson reiterated that the district remains committed to responsible fiscal management and will continue evaluating its AMI program throughout the 2024-25 school year to determine if adjustments are needed for future calendars.