Embedded Files
Why is redistricting needed even though new classrooms are being built at Bear Tavern and Toll Gate?
Why is redistricting needed even though new classrooms are being built at Bear Tavern and Toll Gate?
The voter-approved building expansions at Bear Tavern and Toll Gate will help accommodate growth and reduce crowding across all elementary schools. The additions also will end the need to hold classes in cramped trailers. However, as we addressed during the referendum campaign, minor redistricting is still needed to bridge the gap as we manage rapid enrollment growth.
The construction at Bear Tavern and Toll Gate is expected to be completed by 2028, but we have to act now to relieve the crowding our schools already are experiencing.
What are the new NEIGHBORHOOD BOUNDARIES?
What are the new NEIGHBORHOOD BOUNDARIES?
Students living near Lambertville-Hopewell Road and Route 31 who now attend Bear Tavern will shift to Hopewell Elementary.
Some students who live in new developments will change schools. This includes the following:
All Hopewell Parc students will attend Bear Tavern.
Some students living at The Collection at Hopewell will shift from Stony Brook to Toll Gate.
How will parents of incoming kindergarten students learn which school their child will attend?
How will parents of incoming kindergarten students learn which school their child will attend?
Parents who registered for kindergarten were notified that the district might need to change school assignments as neighborhood boundaries are adjusted. Families will be notified of any changes to their child’s school assignment before the start of the school year.
Can students who are entering fifth grade remain at their current school?
Can students who are entering fifth grade remain at their current school?
Incoming fifth graders can remain at their school for the 2026-27 school year if parents provide transportation. Bus routes are being updated to provide more efficient, shorter rides for students.
Can students in special education programs stay at their current school?
Can students in special education programs stay at their current school?
Students with an IEP (Individualized Education Program) receive one-on-one support at their current schools. Some of these students have been assigned to a specific school because of the programs offered there.
Recognizing that continuity of services is particularly important to the academic and social development of these students, the redistricting plan will keep them at their current schools. Siblings of students with an IEP who attend the same school also will remain there.
What can we expect for class sizes going forward?
What can we expect for class sizes going forward?
The redistricting plan is part of an effort to keep class sizes manageable.
We cannot predict or promise a particular class size because we experience enrollment fluctuations at different grade levels.
The additions at Bear Tavern and Toll Gate, when completed, also will help manage class sizes across our schools.
Do we have enough room at the middle and high schools? Should we opt out of the school choice program?
Do we have enough room at the middle and high schools? Should we opt out of the school choice program?
The space pressure we are feeling at the elementary level is not an issue at the middle school or high school.
The middle school has a capacity of around 1,000 students, and currently serves about 800. The high school can handle 1,200 students and currently has an enrollment of about 1,050.
This means we will have space to accommodate the surge of new students as they advance to upper grades.
We are allowed to enroll a fixed number of choice students. This minimal number does not negatively impact enrollment and provides tuition revenue for our district.
How can I ask a question about redistricting?
How can I ask a question about redistricting?
Please email redistricting@hvrsd.org and you will receive a response as soon as possible.
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