Break out the bookbags and pencils, the 2018-19 school year is just around the corner. The first day of school will be Tuesday, Sept. 4. To make sure parents and students have all the information needed for a great start to school, here is a list of answers to some frequently-asked questions (FAQs).
Back-to-school FAQ:
When are schedules being mailed?
Schedules were mailed out no later than Thursday, Aug. 23.
What are the school hours?
“A” elementary schools hours are from 8:10 a.m. to 2:40 p.m.
“B” elementary schools hours are from 8:40 a.m. to 3:10 p.m.
Middle schools hours are 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
High schools are 7:20 a.m. to 2:10 p.m.
For specific information for specialty centers and programs as well as the adjusted dismissal schedule for all schools, visit vbschools.com.
Where can I find my child’s bus assignment?
Bus schedules for the 2018-19 will be posted on the school division’s WebQuery page Thursday, Aug. 29. By entering your home address and child’s grade level on this page, you will be provided the appropriate bus schedule information.
Where can I find the list of school supplies my child needs?
Most, if not all schools, post school supply lists on their school websites. If you do not see it, the main office of your child’s school is the best point of contact for school supply lists as they vary from school to school and teacher to teacher.
Can I pay for my child’s meals online?
Yes. The school division’s third-party online service, SchoolCafe.com, allows parents/guardians of students to prepay money directly into their child’s account; monitor their child’s food purchases; set up low-balance email reminders; and schedule recurring payments.
The SchoolCafe app can be downloaded on the App store or Google Play.
When is the Open House and/or Orientation Event for my child’s school?
Visit the Open House page on vbschools.com and select your child’s school from the drop down menu for Open House dates and times.
Can my child bring his/her own computer/tablet to school?
Students are not only allowed, but encouraged to bring their own device to school to take part in instructional opportunities. In fact, this year, the school division is officially 1:1 with Chromebooks and laptops available for every student. Additionally, the school division has a Digital Anchor School initiative, where students at participating schools are provided their own laptops or tablets in order to prepare them for employment or post-secondary educational opportunities in a globally-competitive environment.
When are the holiday breaks for the school year?
The full 2018-19 school calendar is available on vbschools.com.
Where can I find the athletic schedules for the year?
For middle school sports, visit the Middle School Sports Central page for athletic schedules. At the high school level, athletic schedules are only available through the Beach District online scheduling program.
How do I know what my child will be studying this year?
Each year, the school division produces curriculum and course guides for both secondary and elementary schools. You can access these documents on vbschools.com and review the content that will be covered in each specific course/grade level.
How can I contact my child’s principal?
Each school website has a “Contact Us” page providing names and contact information for all staff in a school.
How can I stay informed about school events?
VBCPS and all individual schools in the division use AlertNow, a rapid notification system. AlertNow sends important information quickly via phone call, email or text message about emergency situations, school delays or other school events/happenings. Make sure your contact information is up to date at your child’s school to ensure you receive these messages throughout the year.
In addition, VBCPS has a new VBSchools app, which is free to download in either the Google Play or Apple store. This app gives you direct access to school and school division calendars, your child’s School Cafe account and Parent Portal.
Additionally, the school websites are also a good resource to find information about upcoming events or student activities at your child’s school.
How can I stay informed of divisionwide news and events?
Follow us on Facebook and Twitter. The school division maintains active social media accounts where we relay news announcements, school posts, timely information during emergencies and best of all—good news! You can also sign up for the school division’s digital newsletter “A Slice of VBCPS,” which is emailed every Monday to all staff and families.
In addition, parents are encouraged to visit the school division’s Parent Connection webpage. Parent Connection links families to classes, training, resources and other opportunities to help with all facets of parenting. Parents can access a calendar of activities and evening workshops throughout the year as well as subscribe for daily “e-tips” that offer suggestions and activities on topics ranging from homework help and preparing for tests to dealing with bullies and social pressure.
If there is a question you have that is not on the list, feel free to post it in the comment section and staff will follow back up with you.
So bus schedule says 8:07 am for pickup but my child is in afternoon K and I don’t see a pickup time that fits my child’s schedule. Is this an error?
Your best point of contact is the Office of Transportation Services. They can be reached at 263-2928. Thank you!
names of schools with full-day kindergarten, please.
Are 6th grade girls allowed to wear leggings to middle school?
Please check with your school’s office.
Regarding the new security measures at front entrances, how will this stop an active shooter from coming in with the students at the beginning of the day?
Please contact our Office of Safe Schools at 263-2450.
How do I get a PE uniform
For my high school student?
You need to contact your high school.
My son starts Corporate Landing Middle School this year and we weren’t able to make the 6th grade transition as he was on vacation ! Do they mail out a schedule for him before his first day ?!
Please check with Corporate Landing Middle School.
What is the student drop off procedure? Can you walk your child to class?
You have to check with your individual school.
Regarding elementary school hours, how do you know if your child is A or B hours (8:10 or 8:40 start)
The A or B hours apply to the school, not to a specific child. The schedules are listed on vbschools.com here: https://www.vbschools.com/cms/one.aspx?portalId=78094&pageId=297752