Why is my student not eligible for bus transportation even though we are outside the allowed walkable distance?
There are several reasons why this could occur. First, HCPSS measures the distance from the property line of the school/school campus to the property line of the bona fide residence of the student. This measure is often different from measurements using popular mapping applications such as Google Maps or Apple Maps. Additionally, Board of Education Policy 5200 Student Transportation outlines a line of demarcation that can extend non-transportation areas above the listed distances in order to complete streets/neighborhoods when appropriate.
How is tuition assessed in the context of the relocation category of student reassignment?
Families who move out of Howard County on or after the first day of the current school year can request student reassignment with the assessment of tuition.
Tuition is assessed based on the following:
Can my child be reassessed for Early Admission to Kindergarten?
One testing date will be assigned to each applicant; rescheduling of the testing date will only occur for uncontrollable circumstances (e.g., illness). Applicants cannot be reassessed for any reason.
Can I request an early decision for Early Admission to Kindergarten? I need to make arrangements for child care if my child is not admitted.
No. Decision letters will be mailed to each applicant via U.S. mail at the same time, and no result will be shared over the phone. We understand that families may need to make arrangements for their children for the upcoming school year. In the event their child is not accepted, families are encouraged to apply for early care and education programs and/or HCPSS Pre-K, as appropriate. Enrollment in early education programs and/or HCPSS Pre-K is not factored into the Early Admission to Kindergarten decision.
When will I receive the Early Admission to Kindergarten assessment results?
All testing for Early Admission to Kindergarten is typically completed by June 1, depending on the number of applicants and appointments. After the assessment window, each applicant’s academic assessment results and developmental checklists will be scored to determine eligibility. Decision letters will be mailed to each applicant via U.S. mail at the same time, and no result will be shared over the phone. This typically occurs in mid-June. Timelines specific to each applicant cohort are shared with families via email and on the HCPSS website.
Is there a limit to how many applicants for Early Admission to Kindergarten are accepted?
No. Each applicant who meets the standardized criteria will be accepted.
How many applicants are accepted for Early Admission to Kindergarten each year?
Each applicant who meets the standardized criteria will be accepted. While the acceptance rate varies year to year, an average of 20% of applicants are accepted yearly.
Can I observe the Early Admission to Kindergarten assessment?
No. In alignment with assessment procedures in the school setting, families may not join their child in the assessment room. The family member accompanying the child can wait directly outside the assessment room or in the lobby. The assessor wants your child to be as comfortable as possible, so please explain to your child that they will be working with a new teacher before the assessment.