Preparing for the 2023-2024 School Year
The 2023-2024 school year begins for students Monday, Aug. 28. The 2023-2024 academic calendar is available online.
Important Changes for 2023-2024
Transportation Registration
Families whose students are eligible for bus transportation will be required to register through HCPSS Connect to receive bus service for the upcoming school year per Board of Education Policy 5200 Student Transportation. This process will take place annually to help the Office of Student Transportation plan for more accurate student ridership and allow them to make routes more efficient. Registration information can be found online.
Non-Transportation (Walk) Areas
Non-transportation areas (walk areas) have been expanded for the majority of HCPSS schools for the 2023-2024 school year. Board of Education Policy 5200 Student Transportation increases the allowable distance students may walk to school based on the distance between a student’s home and school. As a result, some students who may have previously received bus service may not receive it in 2023-2024.
The distances students may walk to school are:
- Prekindergarten through Grade 5: 1.0 mile
- Grades 6–8: 1.5 miles
- Grades 9–12: 2.0 miles
Adjustments to School Start Times
The Howard County Board of Education adjusted the HCPSS school start times for the 2023-2024 year, shifting high schools to begin at 8:00 a.m., among other changes. The plan adopted by the Board results in start times occurring in three tiers. Some schools may start slightly before or after the stated time for each tier.
The exact start time for each school will be determined later this spring and shared with the community as transportation routes are finalized.