Dear Deep Run Families:
It was so amazing to see you all in our building on Friday! We welcomed our new rangers and reconnected with old friends. Tomorrow is one of the most exciting days of the school year. We are excited about the return of our students in Kindergarten - Grade 5 on Monday, August 25, 2025. RECC and Pre-K students will be returning on Thursday, August 28, 2025. Below, please find important reminders and updates as we prepare for the first day of school!
DOES School Hours
The school start times for school year 2025-26 will be:
- 9:10 a.m. ~ First bell rings. Students may enter the building
- 9:25 a.m. ~ Second/Late bell rings. Students should be in their classroom
- 3:55 p.m. ~ Dismissal begins
Breakfast and Lunch
Breakfast and lunch is free for all students again this year.
Transportation to and From School
On the first day of school, families are encouraged to send their students to school the way they normally would. Starting routines on the first day reduces confusion for students and staff. Want that first day picture? Take it at the bus stop with friends as a way to encourage students to begin building relationships with their peers.
Bus Information
Transportation information is now available! If you have not already done so, please visit the HCPSS Transportation website and use the Bus Locator Tool to access your child’s bus number, bus stop location, and morning and afternoon pickup/drop-off times. In addition to viewing the information on the Bus Locator Tool, please take a few moments to review the additional information on the transportation website. There are many Frequently Asked Questions addressed that may be helpful as you prepare for the start of the year. Please be reminded that as drivers become more familiar with their routes that arrival times may be delayed a bit. Thanks for your patience.
Kiss and Go
Kiss and go...say goodbyes, give kisses and hugs to your child at the bus stop or before they enter the building. We are certain your child will be excited to share details about their learning day once they return home. To ensure the safety of all DRES students and staff, visitors will not be permitted in the building on the first day. Thank you for permitting DRES staff to get students acclimated to their new routines and structures.
Arrival and Dismissal Procedures
To ensure a smooth and safe arrival and dismissal for our students, please read the information below. It is encouraged that families send their students to school the way they normally arrive and dismiss beginning on the first day of school. This establishes routines and avoids confusion for students and staff.
ARRIVAL TIMES:
9:10 a.m. ~ First bell rings/students may enter the building
9:25 a.m. ~ Second/Late bell rings. Students should be in their classroom
Students should not be dropped off or let out of your vehicle until 9:10 a.m. Supervision is not available for students before this time. Before and after care is available through Howard County Parks and Recreation as well as other before and after school providers in the community.
All children who arrive after 9:25 a.m. are considered late and must be accompanied by an adult and be signed into school in the front office.
DISMISSAL TIMES:
Dismissal begins at 3:55 p.m.
Arrival and Dismissal Procedures and Expectations
Please see the visual below for the flow of our car loop. Below the visual are the expectations and instructions for making arrival and dismissal of your student(s) as efficient and safe as possible.



