QAE Bell Time Survey & Background on Changes for 2017-18

QAE cares about our families and knows that there have been many experiences related to the Bell Time change this year. Members of our QAE PTSA reached out to our District and heard back from Pegi McEvoy, SPS Assistant Superintendent of Operations, who let us know that the District is accepting data from individual schools within SPS on the Bell Time issue.

QAE Bell Times Survey is an opportunity for us to communicate with our District and provide our QAE staff and PTSA data about the Bell Time issue as it relates to our community. There are only 11 questions on the survey and it should only take five minutes. The QAE Bell Times Survey must be taken by 1/2/17 by 10 p.m. so we can collate the data and communicate it to SPS.

The data will not be used to advocate for one bell time over another and will be shared with our community after the holiday break. This survey's main intent is to let you know that we care about you and value the needs of our community. Please note that whatever QAE's preferences, scheduling bell times is a complex process where the District will consider feedback from all schools.

Take the Bell Times Survey now...

Background & Other Ways to Share Your Thoughts

During the last contract negotiations between the District and the Seattle Education Association, the parties agreed to add 20 minutes instructional time each day as well as a one hour early dismissal each week to give teachers more time for collaboration and planning.

After receiving feedback from families, teachers and staff, the initial proposal is to add 10 minutes to both the beginning and end of the day. Under this plan, the 2017-18 QAE school day would begin at 7:45 a.m. and end at 2:15 p.m. The early dismissal would be every Wednesday afternoon at 1:15 p.m.

See this page on the School Schedule Recommendations for 2017-18 for more information. You can also share your thoughts directly with the District by writing to arrivaltimes@seattleschools.org.

Special thanks to the amazing Christina Thibault, QAE parent, who helped to craft the survey and to Ms. Roy for support and collaboration. 

With Gratitude,
Christa Winquist & Ian Stewart
QAE PTSA Legislative Team