When is the first day of school?
August 8, 2025, your neighborhood school will notify families of exact schedule for your child.
What are the arrival and dismissal times?
School begins at 8:25 a.m. and ends at 3:35 p.m. Your child needs to be picked up no later than 3:35 p.m. Students participating in breakfast programs should check with your school about arrival times.
Will I get a tour of the school building before school starts?
Check with your assigned elementary school. Some schools will host a “Meet your teacher” event prior to school starting.
Will my child be able to ride the school bus?
Your child is eligible to ride the bus if they live more than 2.5 miles away from their assigned elementary school. It is important to mark the transportation box YES on Skyward when enrolling if you are interested in your child riding the bus. If you qualify, you will be contacted by Durham School Services, our busing provider, a few days before school starts with a bus stop, pick-up and drop-off times.
Does an adult need to be present when the bus drops off my child from school?
You must have an adult present or an older sibling to walk your child home. These individuals need to be established with Durham at the beginning of the school year.
Does my school have an after-school program that my child can attend?
Check with your assigned elementary school to see what programs they have available or contact the YMCA – (785) 825-2151 or St. John’s Missionary Baptist Church – (785) 827-7082 to learn about their programs.
Will my child be served meals at school?
All schools at USD 305 participate in the National School Lunch Program. Breakfast and lunch are served at school. There is a charge for the meals. Families can apply for reduced or free meals during the enrollment process.
Can my child bring their own lunch?
Yes, students may bring their own lunch.
Can I eat lunch with my child?
Yes, it is best to contact the school to learn about the best way to schedule lunch with your child.
If I want to visit my child’s school, what will I need to do?
Parents are welcome to visit their child’s classroom. Parents should schedule with the teacher to get principal approval, before visiting to verify schedules and to provide for meaningful observations. Please stop by the office, sign in and get a visitor’s badge.
Is there an attendance policy for Kindergarteners?
Making sure your student attends school every day is one of the most important things you can do to help your student succeed in school.
- When reporting your child absent or tardy, you must contact the school by 9:00 a.m. each time your child is absent.
- Messages can be left on the school’s answering machine during non-school hours.
- Your child will be unexcused if the school does not hear from you.
- Please provide a doctor's note if your child has missed all or part of the school day due to an appointment.
Will my child get screenings at school?
Vision, hearing and dental screenings will be conducted during the school year. If your child’s screening reveals any concerns, further evaluation may be recommended for your child.