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Summer breaks from school could be getting shorter for kids

In the early 19th century, schools were typically open year-round for kids to escape the bitter winter and hot summers.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Summer break is here, which means students are out of the classroom for months. But the homework hiatus could actually get shorter. 

Even though summers may feel long for parents, it's actually shorter than it used to be. Let's connect the dots.

According to Pew Research, school years lasted about 250 days in 1841. 

Now, it's down to 180 days.

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That's because modern technology allows students to safely relax at home.

In the early 19th century, schools were typically open year-round for kids to escape the bitter winter and hot summers.

But with the invention of air conditioning, schools could safely send students home. 

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A CBS News report found summer break has gotten shorter in recent years for some schools, though. There's a new push to move back to the traditional year-round model, with shorter breaks throughout the year instead of one long break in the summer.

Experts say having one long break doesn't prepare students for future professional time off. However, some schools still don't have air conditioning, and teachers may not be prepared to give up those summer breaks.

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