School board approves first reading to amend magnet/fundamental policy; transportation changes estimated to affect about 450 students

The Pinellas County School Board voted 7-0 to set a public hearing and authorize advertisement of amendments to Policy 2250, the district's rules covering magnet and fundamental school programs, during its September meeting.

The changes presented by Ellen Trzaskowski, director of student assignment, would refine the definition of "unique application area," update appeal language to reference Policy 5500.13 in the Code of Student Conduct, consolidate or rename several programs, add an Automotive Academy at Largo High School and revise high-school transportation eligibility for multiple programs. Trzaskowski said the proposals "are designed to improve transparency, streamline processes and ensure access to our diverse and rigorous DAP offerings."

Board members and staff emphasized transportation as a key effect. Board member Kathleen Edmond asked staff to clarify the scope; Trzaskowski replied that the district estimates roughly 450 students would be affected by the transportation changes, including about 250 students at Osceola Fundamental High School. Edmond said staff would solicit feedback after identifying which students would fall outside revised transportation zones. Trzaskowski also said the district expects annual transportation savings of approximately $2.5 million to $3 million from the reductions outlined, a figure she described as a best estimate.

Other substantive edits Trzaskowski reviewed include name changes to programs (McMullen Booth becoming an accredited IB primary program; rebranding of the Cambridge Conservatory offerings at Tarpon Springs Middle), combining offerings at Pinellas Park High School into a Criminal Justice and First Responder Academy, and expanding the Center for Literacy Innovation's application area to increase access for mid-county students. She said arterial transportation for Osceola Fundamental High School would be removed as part of the eligibility adjustments.

Superintendent Michael Hendrick introduced the item and thanked Trzaskowski and her team. The board approved the motion from Missus Kane with a second from Miss Blacksburg; the vote passed 7-0.

The district will publish the amendment for public comment and hold the formal hearing required by the administrative process before implementing changes. Trzaskowski said live informational events and magnet fairs are scheduled in October and November, and the application window opens Jan. 6.

Board members said families impacted by altered transportation zones will be notified and given opportunities to provide feedback before final adoption.

Votes at a glance: the motion to set a public hearing and advertise amendments to Policy 2250 passed 7-0.