For some kids, what to wear will be the big question. For others, where to go. School choice debuts.
By Times Staff Writer
Published July 23, 2003
The first day of school for nearly 112,000 students arrives Aug. 5 - less than two weeks from today.
With it will come the birth of controlled choice, the biggest change to hit Pinellas County schools in more than 30 years. Nearly four years of planning will become reality when the new student assignment plan debuts in schools from St. Petersburg to Tarpon Springs.
Many things are different under the new plan. Parents who have not chosen a school for their children must follow specific procedures prior to the first day of school. Many start times have been adjusted. Some bus schedules have changed.
A few things are different simply because it's a new school year. More than a dozen new principals are at the helms of elementary, middle and high schools. Other things remain the same. Before- and after-school care programs will resume operation. Students entering certain grades must be immunized. School Board members will meet. Report cards will be distributed.
To learn what's different this year and to be reminded about what stays the same, turn to our annual Back-to-School report.
Choice help line
Confused about your child's school assignment for the school year beginning Aug. 5? Pinellas has a help line for last-minute questions. Call (727) 588-5000 the week of July 28 to Aug. 1. The line will verify a student's status under the school choice plan, but it will not handle appeals or transfer requests. Those questions should be addressed to the school district's student assignment office, (727) 588-6211.
