More than 2,000 people have signed a petition against plans to cut the school week in Falkirk.
The local authority is putting forward proposals to close all local schools at a lunchtime on a Friday.
The school week won't be extended, though, leading to an overall reduction of 14% in teaching time.
Falkirk Council is looking to plug a £62 million budget gap by 2029.
A group of councillors have previously lodged a motion, urging the council to confirm no decisions will be taken before a "full and thorough" consultation.
A Falkirk Council spokesperson said: “We understand parents and carers are concerned about the potential impacts of proposed changes to the school week on their children’s education.
“Please be assured that these changes are not final and have been brought forward to open a dialogue with stakeholders, including parents, carers and the pupils themselves.
“The ultimate goal of any proposed change is to address the council’s significant budget deficit, which stands at £62.5m, as reported in February 2024, while continuing to ensure high-quality education for all our pupils.
“We will engage extensively with parents and carers through meetings held in every school to discuss the proposed changes.”
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