A new organization determined to extend the school day launched earlier this month with support from educational foundations and members of Congress, including Sen. Edward Kennedy. The National Center on Time & Learning seeks to expand learning time to improve student achievement and enable a well-rounded education for the nation's school children.

"We start with a simple premise -- that time matters when it comes to education," the organization's Web site states. "In order to help close the achievement gap and see all our students excel, we need to give them more time in the school day."

The center will act as a clearinghouse of information and as a technical consultant to those willing to expand the school day or school year in their community. The organization will also advocate for local, state, and federal policies to expand learning time, and the necessary increases in funding to support it. That's a key issue for educators who will need higher salaries for longer hours.

The National Education Association has long recognized that for some schools, especially low-performing schools, the day isnt long enough for students to learn what they need to know and gain the skills required for high academic achievement. However, before an extended school day is put into place, NEA maintains that educators must not only be compensated for extra hours, but must be consulted and included in the design and implementation of the new schedule.

Longer school days allow more time for instruction, teacher interaction with students, and activities like music and sports -- all of which can help close achievement gaps, proponents say.

'Expanded learning time programs provide students and teachers with the extra time and opportunities they need for students to succeed both in and beyond the classroom," said Sen. Edward M. Kennedy, (D-MA), Chair of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions, who attended the launch reception on Capitol Hill.

Congress is considering allocating significant federal resources to school districts that want to expand their school day and year.

What do you think of an extended school day? Share your thoughts on our discussion board.

--Cindy Long