February 2025
Sarasota County Schools Community,

As part of our ongoing commitment to effective communication, I am pleased to share the Superintendent's Community Update. This update will be made available periodically and will inform you about relevant and timely topics impacting our schools and community. It is important for us to keep you aware of the latest developments and initiatives within our district.

Cell Phones

Recently, the board discussed cell phone usage in our schools. The conversation highlighted the need to consistently enforce the existing cell phone policy to ensure fairness and clarity across all classrooms. While many teachers and staff are diligent in implementing the policy, inconsistencies can lead to confusion and frustration among students, staff, and parents.

To address this, the board emphasized the importance of clearly communicating and streamlining the consequences of policy violations and applying these consequences uniformly. This approach will help maintain a focused learning environment and support our commitment to providing all students with a safe and productive educational experience.

Student Safety

I want to address a topic on the minds of many in our community. We understand that recent discussions about immigration enforcement may raise concerns. We want to assure all families that our primary focus has always been on the safety and education of every student entrusted to our care. It is crucial to approach this topic calmly to avoid undue alarm and anxiety.

Following our current standard operating procedures, we will:

• Continue to Provide a Safe Learning Environment: Our schools are places where students and staff can focus on learning. We are committed to fostering trust, respect, and inclusivity for all.
  

• Continue to Adhere to Privacy Laws: We keep student records and personally identifiable information in strict compliance with relevant privacy regulations. We do not retain information related to students' immigration status.
  

• Continue to Comply with Lawful Requests: If a school is visited by any verified law enforcement agency and we receive a verified legal order or subpoena, we will fulfill our legal obligations. If any updates or further guidance are issued at the state or federal level, we will review those directives promptly and communicate any implications for our schools and community.

If you have any further questions or concerns, please reach out to your school’s principal for support.

School Choice Enrollment Window

I am also excited to announce that the School Choice Enrollment Window for the 2025-2026 school year is now open. From February 3 to March 3, 2025, parents and guardians of students in grades K-12, residing anywhere in Florida, can apply for their children to attend a public school outside their regular attendance zone through the Controlled Open Enrollment (COE) process.

This opportunity allows families to choose schools that best meet their children's needs, including access to specialized programs such as the arts and STEM. Applications can be submitted online through the Focus Parent Portal, and assistance is available for those who need it.

We encourage families to take advantage of this window to explore the various educational opportunities available within our district.

Thank you for your continued support and dedication to our students' success.

Respectfully,

Terry Connor
Superintendent of Schools