DAC Town Hall

Did you know that a new state law will soon drastically change start times for schools?

It’s true, and this change will impact our entire community, including students, their families, school staff, afterschool programs, businesses and so many more!

By July 1, 2026, school districts must start middle school classes after 8 a.m., and high school classes at 8:30 a.m. or later.

This state-mandated change in school start times was recently passed by the Florida legislature. All school districts must adjust their schedules to comply with the law. House Bill 733 — Middle School and High School Start Times

The new school start times will not go into effect until the 2026-2027 school year.

However, many preparations must still be made for a smooth transition. For instance, the shift in middle and high school start times will likely impact elementary school hours too.

Polk County Public Schools wants all stakeholders to share their insights and help prepare for this upcoming shift in school start times.

The District Advisory Council, a volunteer-based group, is hosting the Education Town Hall series to share information on this important topic.

DAC members will be joined by a panel of experts in education and school operations to answer questions and collect feedback from the public.

Promotional Flyers

Download and share a promotional flyer (PDF).

English | Spanish | Haitian Creole

The event will be held from 6 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. at the following dates and locations:

Monday, March 25 – Jim Miles Professional Development Center, 4270 Wallace Rd, Lakeland

Thursday, March 28 – Stuart Center
1702 S. Holland Parkway, Bartow

Monday, April 1 – Dream Center of Lakeland
635 W 5th St., Lakeland

Monday, April 8 – AdventHealth Fieldhouse
210 Cypress Gardens Blvd., Winter Haven

Monday, April 22 – Tom Fellows Community Center
207 North Boulevard West, Davenport

Please join us and share your thoughts.

Light refreshments will be available.

Jeanette Crowley
Director, Strategic Planning & Partnerships
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (863) 457-4708 x828