Pender County Schools is on the cusp of a transformative shift in its bell schedule, aiming to address crucial challenges while enhancing the educational experience for students across the district. The proposed changes come as a response to significant concerns regarding transportation and student well-being, acknowledging the importance of a balanced and efficient school day.
The current bell schedule presents a series of challenges: late arrivals due to bus driver shortages, early arrivals for scheduled doubles, shared buses leading to discipline and bullying concerns, recruitment difficulties for instructional assistants, and additional non-instructional supervision requirements due to doubles.
In light of these challenges, the district has reviewed transportation data and developed three innovative options for consideration, ensuring no school starts before 7:30 am. The proposed options aim to optimize the school day for students across all grade levels.
- Option A: Standardized 7-hour school day for middle, elementary, and high school students, prioritizing a later start time for middle schools.
- Option B: Maintains a 7-hour day, providing a later start time for high school students.
- Option C: Also a 7-hour day, striving to provide a later start time for elementary school students while addressing transportation challenges.
To collect the thoughts and preferences of the community, Pender County Schools has launched an online survey to ensure that the final decision aligns with the needs and aspirations of the students and families in the district.
For more details and to contribute your thoughts, please visit Survey Link.
This proactive initiative seeks to enhance not only the academic experience but also the overall well-being of students. Pender County Schools encourages everyone to participate in the survey and have a voice in shaping the future of education in the district.
For an online information brochure, please visit this LINK (Spanish version HERE)
Click FAQ'S for Frequently Asked Questions