ACPS is hosting four Redistricting Community Meetings in October and November to solicit community input from across Alexandria ahead of determining the new boundaries.
The process of deciding which boundaries to redraw is taking place this fall. Maps of four possible options will be on display in a gallery walk during the community meetings. Attendees will be asked to provide input and feedback on the four options with the view of drawing up further options to present to the School Board in early spring 2017. A copy of the options is posted on the Electronic School Board.
We would like our community to be actively engaged in the process as this will affect the entire City in one way or another. Please note that we have had to unexpectedly change the date of the first Redistricting Community Meeting, originally scheduled for October 18 at 7:00 p.m. It will now be on Thursday, October 20 at 7:00pm at Francis Hammond Middle School Cafeteria.
- Wednesday, October 19 – 5:30 p.m., G.W. Middle School Media Center
- Thursday, October 20 – 7:00 p.m., Francis Hammond Middle School Cafeteria (new date)
- Monday, November 14 – 5:30 p.m., G.W. Middle School Media Center
- Tuesday, November 15 – 7:00 p.m., John Adams Elementary Cafeteria
While the process of deciding the new boundaries takes place this fall, implementation of any new boundaries will not happen until fall 2018.
The decision to push the implementation of redistricting to 2018 was made with the goal of ensuring it aligns with the opening of the new Patrick Henry School building and the retrofit of office space in order to create a new elementary school in the West End, both of which are scheduled to be ready in fall 2018. The pre-K center — potentially to be co-located within John Adams Elementary School — is also likely to open in 2018.
This means that all student movements for boundary changes, new schools and pre-K would be scheduled to take place at the same time, simplifying and streamlining what would otherwise be a complicated logistical process. In addition, it will allow 18 months for any transitions and communications to take place.
STAY INFORMED/GET INVOLVED
To stay up-to-date with the redistricting process contact your school’s Redistricting Review Committee representative listed at www.acps.k12.va.us/redistricting/review.php
You may also sign up for meeting notifications and updates at www.acps.k12.va.us/redistricting/ or leave a message on the hotline at 703-619-8408. We attempt to respond to all messages within 48 hours. You can also follow updates on Twitter @ACPSk12 #BetterBoundaries.
If you would like to arrange a Redistricting Forum in your community to address your questions and concerns, please contact us.
Thank you for working with us to ensure every student succeeds.