Frequently Asked Enrollment Questions

If students have PE, do they still have recess?  
Yes, PE/Health occurs one time a week during Specials. Recess occurs daily for 30 minutes. 

What is the number of classes per grade, current class size, max class size, and are there assistants?
The number of classes may vary between schools or year to year and is based on enrollment numbers. Our current state guidelines for class numbers is K-3: 1 teacher  to 16-18 students 4-5: 1 teacher to 22 students (locally determined)
Teacher assistants are currently allocated to K-2 classrooms.

Is there an onsite Pre-K?
For many of our campuses, yes. Hall Fletcher, Ira B. Jones, Isaac Dickson have preschool classes. See the ACS Preschool website for more information about Pre-K and enrollment. 

Is there nap time for Kindergarten students? 
We do not provide nap time in kindergarten. Opportunities for quiet time are built into our kindergarten schedules. 

How is the Kindergarten assessment used to build classes? 
Information collected from preschools and kindergarten screening assessments provides our teachers with data they can use to better understand where each student is at during the first weeks of school. This allows us to build lessons matched to students strengths. Placements are made by administrators and kindergarten teams using parent feedback and student learning profiles. 

How are student schedules determined?

At the middle school level, students are assigned to a grade level team and self select electives of interest each year. At the high school level, students request 12 courses based on their interests and graduation requirements. Students are registered in 8 of those courses based on course availability. 

Is PE required? 

Yes, Health & PE is required for all students in Grades 6-8 and is a required credit for high school graduation typically taken in 9th Grade. 

What athletics are available?

A variety of sports are available at the middle and high school level including Volleyball, Football, Soccer, Cross Country, Track & Field, Tennis, Cheerleading, Basketball, Wrestling, Baseball, Softball, Golf, Field Hockey, Lacrosse, and Swimming & Diving. Please contact your student’s school for additional information about athletic offerings at your school and grade level. 

What is the typical class size?

Most middle and high school classes are under 25 students, but class size varies by course. 

What opportunities are there for AP and dual enrollment courses?

AP and dual enrollment courses (AB Tech and UNC Asheville) are available to students at Asheville High School beginning in the 11th grade and SILSA beginning in the 10th grade. For additional information about AP and dual enrollment course offerings for high school students, please visit the Asheville High School and SILSA Course Catalogs. 

What are the school day hours? 

The Elementary School day is 8am - 2:30pm. The Middle and High School day runs from 8:30pm - 3:30pm.

What is the earliest drop off time?

The earliest drop off time for elementary students is 7:15am. The earliest drop off time for middle and high school students is 7:45am. 

What is the dismissal process?
School dismissal for elementary students begins at 2:30pm. School dismissal for middle and high school students begins at 3:30pm. Each school has a designated parent pick-up line and bus line. Bus transportation is available for all students living within the school district. 

How do teachers differentiate?

Teachers collect and analyze student data regularly to modify instruction to meet individual student needs. Teachers differentiate instruction through whole class, small group, and individual instruction. Instruction includes opportunities for student choice and differentiation in how students engage in their learning and express their understanding of the content. All schools have designated AIG and Exceptional Children Staff who work regularly with all students in the classroom setting to provide enrichment and support. 
 

Do schools organize field trips?

Field trips are offered at the school level based on the class and grade level the student is in. Most field trips are during the school day, but some overnight field trips are offered. All field trips require parent permission and financial support is available for all fees that might be associated with a field trip. During remote instruction, virtual field trips may be taken as part of scheduled live classes. 

What volunteer opportunities are available?

Schools regularly use volunteers to work with students. Volunteering includes opportunities like Parent organizations, mentoring, proctoring exams, and guest speaking. Additional information about volunteering, background checks, and volunteer training can be found here. 

Is there an active PTO?

Each school has a parent organization that regularly supports the students and staff at the school. Please contact school staff for more information about joining the PTO. 

What is the lunchroom rotation schedule and how long do the students have for lunch? 

The lunch rotation schedule varies based on the student's assigned class and grade level. State law requires a minimum of 20 minutes seat time for student lunch. 

Is there breakfast- where is it eaten? 

Breakfast is available for all students. Students eat breakfast in different locations based on grade level and school. 

Does your school permit snack time and if so, how is this done?

At K-3 snack time is built into the school day so that students have the opportunity to each a healthy snack during their normal activities. Snacks should reflect school and district health guidelines, and be individually-packaged. Teachers will share specific classroom expectations in their back-to-school letters. 

What is the free or reduced lunch application process?

At the beginning of each year, parent/guardians must complete a free/reduced lunch application to determine eligibility for all students within the family. Applications are now available online.  If a paper-copy is needed please consult your school office or social worker for additional information about the application process and assistance in completing the application. Our elementary schools and district receive Title 1 funding which is based on the number of families qualifying for free-reduced lunch.  We encourage all families to apply for this even if their child plans on bringing their lunch. Title 1 funding supports academics, student activities, and critical staffing,