Dear Gravette Upper Elementary Families,
The safety and well-being of our students will always be our number one priority. We are committed to providing a safe, supportive environment where every child can learn, grow, and thrive. An important part of that commitment is ensuring that each of our nearly 500 students gets home safely every afternoon.
Effective immediately, we will no longer accept transportation changes after 2:45 p.m. Monday-Thursday, and 1:45 on Fridays. Transportation notes are delivered to classrooms at this time of day.
Our afternoon dismissal process involves coordinating transportation for nearly 500 students. Last-minute changes create confusion and increase the risk of a student being sent to the wrong location or not being accounted for during dismissal. While we understand that unexpected situations arise, we must have procedures in place that prioritize the safety of every child.
Additionally, we have seen an increase in students attempting to change their own transportation arrangements based on conversations they have had at home. Please understand that students cannot make their own transportation changes. Even if you have discussed a change with your child, our school must receive direct communication from a parent or guardian confirming that change.
Moving forward, please remember:
All transportation changes must be communicated to the school office before 2:45 p.m.
Transportation changes must be authorized by a parent or guardian through a written note or direct communication with the office (phone call or email).
Students will not be permitted to change their transportation arrangements based solely on what they tell their teacher or office staff.
If we have not received parent or guardian authorization, your child will be sent home using their regular, established transportation method.
We recognize that this may require additional planning, and we sincerely appreciate your understanding and cooperation. These procedures are not intended to create an inconvenience for families. They are in place because we take our responsibility to keep your children safe very seriously.
When it comes to student safety, consistency and clear communication are essential.
Thank you for partnering with us to ensure a safe, organized, and successful dismissal for every student, every day.
Dr. Mandy Barrett
Principal, Gravette Upper Elementary