The Abbotsford School District is conducting a parent and staff survey about whether to begin school a week earlier than usual, starting the last week of August, next year.

Doing so would add extra days to four holiday weekends - the Fridays of Thanksgiving, Remembrance Day, Family Day and Victoria Day weekends - to create four reading breaks.

The other option to be voted on includes a 'status quo' calendar similar to the current year.

Both calendar options include a two-week spring break.

The board of education will debate and vote on the 2013/14 school calendar at its meeting March 12.

Any public delegations that want to express an opinion can register in advance to appear before the board at its Feb. 26 meeting.

Parents and staff can participate in the online survey at www.sd34.bc.ca/board/ consultations/calendar.