Board approves single early-dismissal time to reduce confusion; pre-K scheduling questions remain

The Bristol School District Board of Education on Aug. 6 approved a consolidation of the district’s two separate early-dismissal schedules—one used for conferences and a different schedule used for inclement weather—into a single early-dismissal time intended to reduce family and transportation confusion.

Deputy district staff told the board the dual schedules have caused logistical problems for families and transportation providers; drivers and parents have had difficulty knowing which dismissal time applied on a given day, sometimes causing long waits and missed pickups. Under the consolidated schedule, the district expects more predictable bus runs and clearer communications to families.

During discussion commissioners asked how the consolidated time will be communicated; staff said the schedule will be included in schools’ first-day packets, in the superintendent’s messaging and shared with private transportation vendors.

Several board members raised concerns about the effect on prekindergarten programs, where alternating AM and PM pre-K schedules intersect with delay and early-release rules. Deputy staff said the majority of pre-K seats in the district are full day and noted there are scheduling permutations for half-day pre-K that will need mitigation. Board members requested follow-up from the superintendent and deputy superintendent with specific guidance for PM pre-K schedules and any necessary adjustments before families receive final schedules.

A motion to approve the early-dismissal-time consolidation was made, seconded and passed by voice vote.