Family Forums

Q: Can the cell phone survey results be broken down by staff vs. parents?
A: Yes, those statistics will be presented at the November 11 School Board Meeting.

Q: Does the new cell phone policy include smartwatches?
A: It does. We aim to balance safety and learning. Watches are still part of the final board decision, so certain parameters are pending.

Q: Does the policy apply to adults?
A: Yes.

Q: Can elementary teachers still use their cell phones to capture class activities and student photos?
A: The general expectation is that all staff follow the guidelines.

Q: What is the justification for allowing students to use phones between classes and at lunch?
A: For safety and communication, particularly for parents coordinating with students regarding schedules and activities.

Q: How does the VLA apply to students with disabilities?
A: In-class interventions are provided, along with state-supplied supplemental materials.

Q: Where is the safe vestibule located for Taylor Middle School?
A: It is located in front of the main office. The design aims to secure students, though the office area may offer less shielding for employees.

Q: Can we improve interior safety, such as adding more cameras?
A: We annually apply for state security grants to enhance safety measures. Additional cameras and upgrades are prioritized based on school needs.

Q: How are safety priorities determined?
A: Priorities are based on student population, equipment age, and specific security concerns, with immediate repairs for any inoperative equipment.

Q: How is bullying and drug use addressed?
A: Principals respond to every reported incident of bullying. For drug-related issues, we maintain close communication with our SSO/SRO staff in each school.

Q: Can the public access incident reports?
A: Incidents are documented and reported to the state. Direct inquiries about specific incidents should be directed to the school principal.

Q: Do SROs rotate between schools?
A: SROs are assigned to base schools, with assignments determined by the Sheriff’s Office.

Q: What is the current status and financial impact of the Taylor project?
A: We plan to break ground next spring, with completion aimed for fall 2028. The budget has increased by about $3.5 million, though value engineering may reduce costs.

Q: Why not build new schools instead of renovating?
A: A discussion on school balance, enrollment, and redistricting will be needed in the near future.

Q: Why has there been a delay in addressing Taylor’s construction needs?
A: Moving students to another building was initially more cost-effective, leading to the current approach.

Q: Can there be more updates on Taylor at school board meetings?
A: Yes, we’ll aim to provide more frequent updates at school board meetings.

Q: How are we supporting English Language learners?
A: The state has funded 13 additional ESL teachers.

Q: Can parents view high school and middle school course selection and registration?
A: We are looking into ways for parents to participate and approve course selections, given the online process is new.

Q: How are class sizes monitored?
A: Enrollment is monitored monthly by school, grade level, and class.

Q: Why are history assessment scores low?
A: FCPS uses performance-based assessments, and only students with specific educational plans take the standard SOL exam. This was discussed in the September 9 School Board meeting.

Q: How can Southeastern Alternative students stay informed about base school activities?
A: We’ll coordinate with SAS staff to ensure students and families receive this information.

Q: Are reading specialists overwhelmed?
A: We adhere to state guidelines for reading specialist placements, and we recognize that VLA has increased their workload.

Q: Will there be a simplified budget overview?
A: Yes, the budget office will distribute a "budget cheat sheet" to parents starting in January.

Q: Is there an incentive program for bus drivers?
A: Retired FCPS staff or those from other divisions are eligible for a signing bonus if they return or join as bus drivers.