August 2025 Family and Community Newsletter

For the past several years, all Pasco County Schools have been part of a federal program called the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP). This program has allowed us to offer free breakfast and lunch to all students, regardless of income.

However, due to rising food costs and changes in federal legislation, our district will be making some changes starting with the 2025–2026 school year.

Next year, we will move to a hybrid model:

• Schools in high-poverty areas will continue offering free meals to all students through the CEP program.
• All other schools will return to the traditional meal program, where families will need to fill out Free and Reduced-Price Meal Applications to see if their child qualifies for free or discounted meals.

Below are helpful links to guide you:

• CEP & Non-CEP School List
• Food and Nutrition Services FAQ
• Free and Reduced Meal Application FAQ
• Food and Nutrition Department Website

If you have questions, please contact us through Let’s Talk: School Meals. We’re happy to help.

We truly value the opportunity to support your child’s health and learning and remain committed to ensuring that every student has access to nutritious meals.

Sincerely,

Pasco County Schools

Pasco County Schools is committed to reducing absenteeism and increasing student achievement outcomes. That’s why this year, and moving forward, we will be increasing awareness around the importance of attendance—with the goal of strengthening our collective responsibility to make sure students are learning every day. Each month we’ll be sharing facts and helpful tips about attendance.

August Statistic:

Students who graduate make approximately $10,000 more per year.

DID YOU KNOW?

Even missing just 1 day of school can make a difference. Each day helps your child learn, grow, and stay on track. Every school day really matters!

Missing Just 2 days a month?

It might not seem like much, but over time it adds up. Your child could miss:

• Up to 20 days of learning in a year
• 30 hours of crucial math instruction
• 60 hours of essential reading and writing practice
•  By graduation, that’s over 1 full year of lost learning!

Missing 4 Days a Month?

The impact is even more serious. In just one school year, your child could lose:

• 40 days of learning
• 60 hours of critical math instruction
• 120 hours of vital reading and writing practice
• By graduation, that’s more than 2 full years of missed education!

 What Can You Do?

• Set a regular bedtime and morning routine
• Schedule appointments outside of school hours
• Communicate with the school if your child must be absent

Your child’s future starts with showing up today!

Learn more by visiting https://www.pasco.k12.fl.us/attendance

The Tampa Tarpons are hosting a back-to-school outing at Steinbrenner Field on Friday, August 30, at 6:30 p.m., coinciding with Fan Appreciation Night!

Schools across the county are invited to attend a fun-filled evening of baseball, giveaways, games, and fireworks—all while giving back to the school district.

Ticket Options:

• $19.09 Ticket Package: Includes reserved game ticket + Tarpons hat
• $31.44 Ticket Package: Includes reserved game ticket + Tarpons hat + Meal Deal (hot dog or hamburger with chips and choice of a soda or water)

Event Highlights:

• Entry giveaway for the first 1,000 fans
• Prizes given away every inning
• Interactive games on the concourse for kids
• Post-game fireworks show

Each ticket purchased will contribute $5 back to our school district!

To buy tickets, please visit https://www.gofevo.com/event/PascoBacktoSchool2025

The Pasco Education Foundation is excited to be featured in Target Circle™. Vote for the Foundation in the Target app to direct Target funds to support our work of providing essential classroom supplies to Pasco County teachers and students. 

You can vote directly in the Target app or in your account on Target.com. Find the Pasco Education Foundation in the My Target, Explore Benefits, or See Your Deals sections on your Target Circle™ account.

Drive your career forward with Pasco County Schools! Join us at our Transportation Hiring Event on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Raymond B. Stewart Middle School in Zephyrhills. We’re hiring Bus Drivers, Transportation Assistants, Vehicle Technicians, and more. Enjoy competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and paid CDL training support.

Register by visiting https://ryu.pasco.k12.fl.us/hreq-mform/view.php?id=205434 

FDLRS Gulfcoast is offering online parent and family trainings in August, provided by the Florida Department of Education, Bureau of Exceptional Education and Support Services IDEA funded projects.

Homework Help is a training that focuses on tips and tricks to assist learners at home with study strategies and homework completion. This training is from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. on August 27.

Successful School/Home Communication is a training that is designed to help you navigate challenging parent conferences and IEP meetings. This training is from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. on August 28.

To attend these training sessions, please visit the FDLRS Parent Services information page, or email Sandi Bailey at hoenigmans@pcsb.org.

As students return to classrooms, communities experience a surge in both vehicle and foot traffic. With this seasonal shift comes a renewed responsibility for everyone—drivers, parents, students, and schools—to prioritize safety.

Take a moment to review the newly approved Board Policy on USE OF BICYCLES, SCOOTERS, SKATEBOARDS, GOLF CARTS, AND OTHER MOBILITY DEVICES.

 Increased Traffic Means Increased Responsibility

The start of the school year brings more cars on the road, more children walking and biking, and more buses making frequent stops. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), school zones are high-risk areas for young pedestrians, especially during morning and afternoon hours.

 Safety Tips for Drivers

1. Slow Down in School Zones – Always follow posted speed limits and be prepared to stop at any moment.
2. Stay Alert – Watch for children crossing the street, especially near crosswalks and intersections.
3. Put Down the Phone – Avoid using electronic devices while driving, especially in school zones. Even a quick glance can lead to a serious accident.
4. Obey School Bus Laws – Never pass a stopped school bus with flashing red lights and an extended stop sign.

 Tips for Parents Dropping Off Kids

1. Follow School Drop-Off Procedures – Each school has specific rules for drop-off and pick-up. Familiarize yourself with them and follow staff directions.
2. Use Designated Drop-Off Zones – Avoid double parking or letting children exit the car in undesignated areas.
3. Stay in Your Vehicle – If possible, remain in your car to keep the line moving smoothly and safely.
4. Be Patient and Courteous – Everyone is trying to get their children to school safely. A little patience goes a long way.
5. Avoid Distractions – Refrain from texting, checking emails, or using apps while in the school zone. Your full attention is needed to keep children safe.
6. Teach Kids Safe Habits – Remind children to look both ways before crossing and to use sidewalks and crosswalks.

Tips for Pedestrians and Students

1. Use Crosswalks and Sidewalks – Always cross at marked areas and walk on sidewalks when available.
2. Be Visible – Wear bright or reflective clothing, especially in low-light conditions.
3. Avoid Distractions – No texting or headphones while crossing streets.
4. Walk in Groups – Younger children should walk with an adult or in groups for added safety.

 A Shared Responsibility

Safety is a community effort. Schools can support this by:

• Hosting safety awareness events.
• Ensuring signage and crosswalks are clearly marked.
• Working with local law enforcement for traffic control during peak hours.

Back-to-school season is a time of excitement and new beginnings. Let’s make it a safe one by staying alert, putting down our devices, and looking out for one another. Whether you're behind the wheel, on foot, or guiding your child through the school gates, your actions make a difference.