Osceola County Parents Urged to Weigh In on School Start Times

URGENT UPDATE: Osceola County School District is urgently seeking parent feedback on proposed changes to school start times following new state legislation. The district faces a critical deadline as Senate Bill 296 mandates that middle schools cannot start before 8 a.m. and high schools must wait until at least 8:30 a.m. to begin classes.

With only a few days left, parents are encouraged to submit their opinions by December 12. The district is considering four options, including maintaining current high school start times of 7:15 a.m. or pushing them back as late as 9:30 a.m.. This decision is not just about scheduling; it could also have significant financial implications, potentially exceeding $7 million to implement the changes.

As the district navigates this legislative shift, officials are turning to parents for their preferences, emphasizing the urgency of compliance with state law. The feedback from parents will play a crucial role in shaping the final decision, and the district is actively reaching out to ensure everyone has a chance to voice their thoughts.

Officials stress the importance of this feedback, highlighting how the adjustments could impact students’ daily routines and overall well-being. The outcome of this initiative could significantly affect families across Osceola County, making it imperative for parents to respond promptly.

Stay tuned for further updates as the situation develops. The school district is committed to keeping the community informed and engaged as they work through these important changes. Parents, make your voices heard before the December 12 deadline!