(KGTV) -- California Sen. Kamala Harris wants to extend the school day to 6 p.m. as part of a proposal to help working families.
The Democratic presidential candidate introduced the Family Friendly Schools Act, which would “align the school day with the work day to better support working families.”
Part of Harris’ proposal calls for an 8 a.m.-6 p.m., Monday-Friday school schedule, with no school closures “except for Federal holidays, weekends, and emergencies.”
The bill would apply to 500 schools across the country, and it would create a pilot program that provides resources for the schools to stay open longer.
Under the proposed federal legislation, teachers and staff would not be required to work extra hours unless they choose to do so.
Additionally, the bill calls for an investment of $1 billion to improve summer learning programs.
In a press release, Harris said: “My mother raised my sister and me while working demanding, long hours. So, I know firsthand that, for many working parents, juggling between school schedules and work schedules is a common cause of stress and financial hardship. But, this does not have to be the case. My bill provides an innovative solution that will help reduce the burden of child care on working families. It is time we modernize the school schedule to better meet the needs of our students and their families.”
