School Board members held an emergency meeting today to hear the latest on reopening schools come August 3 for employees and August 24 for students, both in-person and online.  The four-hour meeting addressed several components of reopening, all considered “fluid and flexible” as of today:

When will school start?

The Marion County School Board approved a calendar that starts class options for students, as chosen by their parents, on Monday, August 24, for both traditional in-class learning and MCPSonline. This plan calls for a 170-day school year instead of the traditional 180-day school calendar. 

As of now, the last day of school for all students will be May 26, 2021. Traditionally, seniors have been dismissed a week earlier, but to meet the state’s 900 instructional-hour requirement, all students will be in class through May 26, 2021. 

All early release days are now full class days while most weather make-up days remain intact. 

Thanksgiving, Christmas and Spring Breaks all remain unchanged.

When will school-based staff members start the new school year?

School-based staff members report on Monday, August 3, and will receive three weeks of professional development to prepare for the start of school and training on new safety standards.

When will school start?

The Marion County School Board approved a calendar that starts class options for students, as chosen by their parents, on Monday, August 24, for both traditional in-class learning and MCPSonline.  This plan calls for a 170-day school year instead of the traditional 180-day school calendar. 

As of now, the last day of school for all students will be May 26, 2021.  Traditionally, seniors have been dismissed a week earlier, but to meet the state’s 900 instructional-hour requirement, all students will be in class through May 26, 2021.  

All early release days are now full class days while most weather make-up days remain intact. 

Thanksgiving, Christmas and Spring Breaks all remain unchanged.  

When will school-based staff members start the new school year? 

School-based staff members report on Monday, August 3, and will receive three weeks of professional development to prepare for the start of school and training on new safety standards. 

What about extra-curricular activities like sports, band, cheerleading, and school clubs?

Quarter three for extra-curricular summer activities is extended until the School Board meets again on July 30.  This decision was based on new information from the FHSAA (Florida High School Athletics Association) and uncertainty on when athletics and other activities will be allowed to resume.

Quarter three for extra-curricular summer activities is extended until the School Board meets again on July 30. This decision was based on new information from the FHSAA (Florida High School Athletics Association) and uncertainty on when athletics and other activities will be allowed to resume.

FULL FAQ

Will students wear masks in classrooms?

Masks or face shields will be required when social distancing is difficult or not possible (i.e. hallways, common areas, school bus, etc.).

Has the start date for the 2020-2021 school year changed?

The School Board has agreed to begin face to face, traditional instruction no earlier than August 24th. The start date for MCPSonline is still being considered.

FULL FAQ