The four-day week is a popular way to improve the quality of education and save energy costs in rural districts. The four-day week is structured as a lengthened day or school year. Thirteen states have districts operating on four-day calendars. State laws and education agency regulations require districts to evaluate the effect of four-day programs on student achievement, transportation and use of facilities, costs, and reactions of students, parents, and staff. Reactions to the four-day week are generally favorable. There are some concerns expressed for younger students, those traveling long distances, and problems with scheduling programs and activities with traditionally scheduled districts. Six points should be considered when contemplating the four-day week: (1) state legislation to maintain operational and academic requirements;; (2) integrating four-day week energy saving studies with districtwide consumption; (3) calendar modifications; (4) making opportunities for activities and special instruction available; (5) evaluating research on the effectiveness of schools and student learning; and (6) input in planning from students, teachers, administrators, and community members. (MD)