Welcome from the Superintendent


To:  Parents and Guardians

From:   Mark McQueen, Superintendent

Date:    March 14, 2025

 

At Bay District Schools, I have the privilege of visiting every campus, meeting with our students, and witnessing firsthand the incredible dedication of our teachers and staff. No matter where I go, I see excellence in action: classrooms filled with engaged learners, innovative programs shaping future leaders, and a deep commitment to helping every student succeed. Our schools are truly exceptional, and I am incredibly proud of the work being done across our district every day.

Most of our families choose to send their children to their zoned school, and I’m grateful for their trust in our excellent local campuses. However, we also understand that some families need flexibility to find the school that best fits their child’s unique needs. That’s why we’re proud to offer school choice, allowing families to select a school outside their zoned area for reasons like transportation, after-school care, or access to specialized programs of study. Whether your child is passionate about STEM, the arts, or career-focused pathways, we are committed to providing world-class educational opportunities that help them achieve their dreams.

Key Dates for School Choice and Hardship Applications

 March 3 - April 1 – Open enrollment for school choice is available through the Parent Portal. Families interested in selecting a school outside their zoned area should submit their applications during this window.

• April 15 - 22 – Families can accept open enrollment placements through the Parent Portal.

 May 15 – The hardship application window opens for families requiring special consideration. These applications are also available through the Parent Portal.

While we strive to accommodate as many families as possible, some schools may reach capacity and will close to school choice and hardship applications. This ensures all students have a safe, supportive learning environment with the resources they need to thrive.

If you are considering a school choice application, I recommend scheduling a tour of your zoned school and the school you are exploring before making a final decision. Visiting a campus, meeting our principals and teachers, and checking out the programs in person can offer valuable insight into the best fit for your child.

No matter which school you choose, you can rest assured that every Bay District Schools campus is focused on academic excellence, innovation, and student success. From pre-kindergarten through graduation, we are fully committed to providing the resources, support, and opportunities that empower students and families every step of the way.

Thank you for trusting us with your child’s education. Whether your family chooses to attend your zoned school or takes advantage of school choice, we are honored to be part of your child’s learning journey. Together, we’re putting the “A” back in Bay!



Previous Posts

March 14, 2025 

March 7, 2025

February 28, 2025 

February 21, 2025

February 14, 2025 

February 7, 2025

January 31, 2025

January 24, 2025

January 17, 2025 

January 10, 2025

December 19, 2024

December 13, 2024 

December 6, 2024

November 22, 2024

November 15, 2024

November 8, 2024 

November 1, 2024

October 25, 2024

October 18, 2024 

October 10, 2024 

October 3, 2024 

October 2, 2024

September 20, 2024 

September 13, 2024 

September 6, 2024 

August 30, 2024

August 23, 2024

August 15, 2024

August 8, 2024

August 1, 2024 

Archive of Previous Posts 

 

Location
1311 Balboa Avenue
Panama City, FL 32401
(850) 767-4100
Mark McQueen
Superintendent, Bay District Schools
Office of the Superintendent
Holly Buchanan
Employment and Income Verification Equity Coordinator
buchahd@bay.k12.fl.us
850-767-4100
Public Records Request
accessibility