A - Reconfiguration is a different arrangement of parts.  In this case, the reconfiguration is a re-organization of the elementary schools so that a smaller range of grades will be at each school.  This proposal is to have two primary buildings serving students in grades PreK-2, and three elementary buildings serving students in grades 3-5.

A - A grade band is a specific range of grades.  Many standards, professional learning opportunties, assessments, and curricular materials are organized into grade bands, most frequently K-2 and 3-5.

A - A reconfiguration could have many benefits for students.  With each building focusing on specific grade bands, the professional learning and curriculum can be more focused to provide the targeted interventions and resources needed to prepare students.  Primary buildings will focus on foundational literacy and numeracy skills, social and emotional skill-building, and early interventions.  The elementary (grade 3-5) buildings would focus on reading comprehension, numeracy and problem-solving skills, science investigations, career exploration, and SEL/Civic engagement.  This reconfiguration would also decrease movement at the primary level, which can help to increase community and SEL building at the early levels, as well as make it more possible for teachers and staff to track student progress and establish early interventions if needed.

A - "A child safety zone is a designated area within a ... school district, including at least one personal residence, within which children who reside at a lesser distance from school than the minimum eligibility distance may be provided transportation on the basis that their most direct walking route to school will traverse a hazardous zone." - NYSED

There are three basic types of safety hazards: highways without sidewalks or adequate shoulders, highway intersections, and highway-railroad grade crossings. Guidelines are provided by the state to award points as to the level of hazard each area is awarded. If the total points is equal to or exceeds the values as determined by section 191.4 of the regulations, then a child safety zone is established. If one hazard exists, a total of 12 points would indicate a safety zone for students in grades K-5. If two hazards exist, a total of 21 points would qualify a student in grades K-5 to be placed in a child safety zone.

A - PCSD is making every effort to ensure equitable programming continues at each elementary building.  Curricula will remain the same and professional learning for teachers will be focused on the specific grade bands at their building.  Additionally, all schools will continue to have a library media specialist and full library, opportunities for art, PE, and music with instrumental music beginning in third grade with recorders.  The district is planning to continue the extended learning time programs at all elementary buildings, and expanding the dual langauge program to include grade 2 in 2024-2025.

A - The district recognizes the importance of safe, reliable transportation for students. This change ensures all students have equitable access to school, supports family schedules, and improves attendance by addressing transportation barriers.

A - Transportation is provided at no additional cost to families. The District covers the expenses as part of its commitment to student safety and equity.

A - The district will provide bus information, including stop locations and times, through our transportation portal on the district website. You will also receive a personalized notification by email and/or mail with details specific to your child.

A - Bus stops are determined based on safety, efficiency, and proximity to students' homes. Stops are located within a reasonable walking distance to ensure safety while minimizing travel time.

A - Each bus is driven by a trained, licensed driver who prioritizes student safety. In addition, some buses may have a monitor to assist younger students or those with special needs.

A - All buses are equipped with seat belts, GPS tracking, and cameras for monitoring. Drivers undergo rigorous safety training, and evacuation drills will be conducted with students twice a year.

A - Stops are designed to minimize street crossings. If crossing is unavoidable, drivers will follow safety protocols, such as activating stop signals and ensuring traffic is halted before allowing students to cross.

A - The district has a clear bus behavior policy, which will be shared with families and students. Drivers will report incidents to school administrators, and consequences will follow the district's code of conduct.

A - Talk to your child about bus safety rules, such as staying seated, using a quiet voice, and following the driver's instructions. Practice walking to the bus stop and discuss what to do if they miss the bus.

A - Notify the district's transportation office and school nurse about your child's medical condition. Plans will be made to address their needs, which may include assigning a monitor to the bus.

A - Families will receive real-time updates through text messages, emails, or phone calls. The district will also post updates on the transportation section of its website.

A - For immediate concerns, contact the district's transportation office at 451-4990 or droger@poughkeepsieschools.org. For ongoing issues, you can reach out to the building principal or transportation coordinator.

A - Small items that fit on your child's lap are allowed. Larger items may need alternate arrangements. Check with the transportation office for specific guidelines.

A - If your child misses the bus, you are responsibile for transporting them to school. Be sure to arrive at the stop a few minutes early to avoid this situation.

A - Students with special needs will receive individualized transportation accommodations as outlined in their IEP or 504 plan. A transportation coordinator will work with families to ensure a smooth process.