Future County Public Schools Announces Two New Opt-In Schools Opening in 2026–2027

Future County Public Schools (FCPS) announces the opening of one new opt-in high school and one new opt-in middle school, both scheduled to open in the 2026–2027 school year.

These schools are designed to expand student learning opportunities through innovative, cohort-based programs while maintaining existing school assignments and attendance boundaries across the division.

Participation in either school is optional.

New Opt-In High School

Opening Year: 2026–2027
Initial Grades Served: 9–11
Full Implementation: Grades 9–12 beginning in the 2027–2028 school year

The new opt-in high school will open serving students in grades 9 through 11, with grade 12 added in 2027–2028, completing a full 9–12 program.

Students may apply as rising 9th or rising 10th graders during designated application periods. Enrollment is designed as a cohort-based experience, with students progressing together through graduation.

This model supports:

• Long-term academic planning
  
  

• Program continuity and stability
  
  

• Strong relationships among students and staff
  
  

• A cohesive school culture
  
  

Families who choose to enroll are committing to a long-term academic program designed to continue through graduation. FCPS will work with families if a student’s needs change.

New Opt-In Middle School

Opening Year: 2026–2027
Initial Grades Served: 7–8
Full Implementation: Grades 6–8 beginning in the 2027–2028 school year

The opt-in middle school will open serving students in grades 7 and 8, expanding to a full grades 6–8 program in 2027–2028.

The school is designed to provide a cohort-based middle school experience focused on academic growth, student engagement, and preparation for a range of high school pathways.

What This Means for Families

• Enrollment in either school is optional
  
  

• Students who do not apply will remain at their assigned FCPS school
  
  

• Attendance zones and school assignments remain unchanged
  
  

• Transportation and student support services will be provided in alignment with FCPS policies
  
  

• Equity and access are foundational components of both schools
  
  

Frequently Asked Questions

Are families required to apply to these schools?

No. Both schools are opt-in. Families who do not apply will remain at their assigned FCPS school.

What grades will the schools serve when they open?

• The high school will open in 2026–2027 serving grades 9–11 and will expand to grades 9–12 in 2027–2028.
  
  

• The middle school will open in 2026–2027 serving grades 7–8 and will expand to grades 6–8 in 2027–2028.
  
  

Who is eligible to apply to the opt-in high school?

Students may apply as rising 9th or rising 10th graders during designated enrollment periods.

Why is the high school cohort-based through graduation?

The cohort-based model supports program continuity, long-term planning, and a stable learning environment for students.

Can students transfer out of the high school after enrolling?

The high school is designed as a commitment through graduation; however, FCPS will work with families if a student’s needs change.

Can students apply to the high school in grades 11 or 12?

No. Entry points are limited to rising 9th and rising 10th graders to maintain the integrity of the cohort-based model.

Is the middle school a permanent placement?

No. The middle school provides a structured program for grades 7 and 8 (and grades 6–8 beginning in 2027–2028). Students may continue to the high school of their choice following completion.

Will these schools change current attendance boundaries or school assignments?

No. The creation of these schools does not affect attendance zones or assigned schools for students who do not opt in.

How will FCPS ensure equitable access?

FCPS will provide transportation, student services, and a fair application process in alignment with division equity commitments.

When will applications open?

Application timelines and additional details will be shared in future FCPS communications.