With the new three-tier bell schedule launching in the 2025–2026 school year, Pender County Schools is taking proactive steps to support families—especially those with children attending schools on different start and end times.
We recognize that this schedule change may create challenges for families with siblings at both elementary and middle school levels. To help, Pender County Schools will offer additional before and after-school care options for students affected by staggered drop-off and pickup times.
School principals are finalizing their plans, here’s how it may work:
Morning Care for Middle School Students
If a middle school student needs to be dropped off early because their younger sibling starts at an earlier elementary school time, care will be provided on campus until the middle school day begins. This supervision will most likely be led by school staff and administrators.
Afternoon Care for Elementary Students
If an elementary school student needs to wait after dismissal for a sibling at a middle school with a later release time, care will be provided until the family can pick both children up.
PCS is finalizing the details of this care plan, and more information will be shared with families in mid-to-late July, including how to request this support through your child’s school.
Additional Reminders:
The PACES before- and after-school program will continue during the 2025–2026 school year. PACES enrollment is first-come, first-served, and some families who participated last year have already secured spots for this fall.
As transportation needs evolve based on childcare availability, families may update bus ridership preferences directly through their school. Final bus routes will be determined closer to the start of the school year to reflect the most accurate information.
We appreciate your partnership and patience as we work to ensure this transition is as smooth as possible for all families. If you have specific questions or changes related to transportation, please contact your child’s school directly.