This research brief is designed to introduce the legislator to the year-round school concept; what it is, how it works, and what kinds of State legislation may be needed to facilitate implementation of year-round school programs. The publication looks at the history of year-round schools and presents selected year-round school designs, including the 45-15 plan, trimesters, quarters, quinmesters, Concept 6, 7 learning periods, and the continuous learning year. The main features of specific year-round school statutes in different States are arranged in chart form. Additional sources of information are noted throughout the brief. The appendix lists selected operational year-round plans along with the names and addresses of contact persons. (Author/DN)