Charlotte County schools propose new start times, ask parents for input

Charlotte County Public Schools is considering changes to its school start and stop times. 

Proposed changes include starting high schools at 8:30 a.m. instead of 7:10 a.m., with an end time of 3:30 p.m. Middle schools would start at 9:20 a.m. instead of 9:10 a.m., ending at 4:20 p.m. Elementary schools would consolidate staggered start times to a single start at 7:40 a.m., ending at 2:10 p.m. Charlotte County School’s assistant superintendent’s say this change would require three more buses and drivers, costing around $500,000.

The district is assessing whether to proceed with these adjustments and how to involve stakeholders and parents in the decision. The district says the state requires the board to outline strategies for later school start times, including meetings, public hearings, and opportunities for parental input. They must also describe the financial impact and any unintended consequences.

The district plans to engage the community through School Advisory Council (SAC) meetings. They say these meetings will discuss start times, with all parents welcome, though only SAC members can vote.

 Assistant superintendents Bob Bedford and Jeff Harvey say they will send forms to the state based on the board's recommendations after their meeting Tuesday, March 10 at 5:30PM.