How much space is needed? Schools stuck in middle of classroom debate The issue of completely opening schools again for a full five-day week is pitting parents groups against state and local health officials. Author: Ron Plants Updated: 8:27 PM EST March 10, 2021 BUFFALO, N.Y. — The issue of completely opening schools again for a full five-day week is pitting parents groups against state and local health officials with school administrators caught in the middle. Last week Onondaga County Executive Ryan McMahon in Syracuse proposed opening schools there for a full five days to all students by offering to pay for desk shields.