The School District of Indian River County is seeking community feedback on potential adjustments to school start and dismissal times for the 2026-2027 school year. They are aiming to better align schedules, enhance after-school programs, and improve student learning outcomes.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has signed Senate Bill 296, repealing a 2023 law that required middle schools to start no earlier than 8 a.m. and high schools no earlier than 8:30 a.m. by the 2026-2027 school year, giving local districts more control over schedules.
The district is in the early information-gathering stage and has distributed surveys via email to staff and families, as announced by the district. Those without an email on file in the district’s Focus system can access survey links through public channels.
Proposed Changes:
High Schools
- Current – 7:05 am to 1:52 pm
- Change – 7:20 am to 2:07 pm
Middle Schools
- Current – 8 am to 2:41 pm
- Change – 8:10 am to 2:51 pm
Elementary Schools
- Current – 8:50 a.m. to 3:30 pm
- Change – 8:55 am to 3:35 pm
K-8 Schools
- Current – 8:50 am to 3:30 pm
- Change – 8:10 am to 2:51 pm
The K-8 Schools include Fellsmere Elementary, Pelican Island, Osceola Magnet, and Rosewood Magnet. Wabasso School and Indian River Prep would keep their current independent schedules, according to the district.
Residents have until Thursday, November 21, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. to submit their input after reviewing the proposals.
How to give your input
- Family Feedback: https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx…
- Staff Feedback: https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx…
For more information, visit the Indian River County School District website or call (772) 564-3000.
