School Choice Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When does the next enrollment process begin?
A: The next enrollment process HAS BEGUN. This is for enrollment in the Fall of 2013 in grades K-8.
Q: Is the enrollment process really done nearly a whole year in advance?A: Yes, the state of New Jersey sets the timelines for the enrollment process and the applications this fall are for the next school year.
Q: My student has already enrolled as a school choice student this year. Do I need to do anything to continue my child as a choice student in Frenchtown next year?A: No, there is no more paperwork after the initial enrollment process.
Q: For parents interested in enrolling their children in Frenchtown, what is the first step?
A: The first step is to notify your district of residence (current district where you live) of your intent to participate in the School Choice program before the upcoming
November 2, 2012 deadline. The easiest way to do this is to fill out an Intent to Participate form which is available at our main office (908-996-2751) or by printing one from the link on our main School Choice page. Simply fill out the form and bring it to your current school by the deadline. The state advises to send the form return receipt mail or bring it in yourself. Ensure you make a copy of the completed form for yourself and ask for a dated receipt when if you drop the form off in person. (most popular)
Q: How many students will Frenchtown Elementary School accept?
A: The number of seats available for each grade level has been determined by the district with attention to maintaining a low student to teacher ratio.
Q: Is preschool part of the School Choice Program?
A: The School Choice Program does not apply to preschool programs. However, students from other towns that are currently enrolled in Frenchtown's Little Paws Preschool are able to enroll as School Choice students with a seamless transition. Frenchtown's Little Paws Preschool will continue to accept students as it has in past years.
Q: Will Frenchtown continue to enroll students from other towns on a tuition basis?
A: No. Under the School Choice regulations Choice Districts may no longer accept tuition paying students. However, preschool and out-of-state students are outside the parameters of the School Choice program and can continue on a tuition basis.
Q: What happens if there are more applicants for a grade than seats available?
A: If there are more applicants than seats available, a lottery process will determine which applicants are accepted.
Q: Are there before and after school child care options if I need support for my child during those times?
A: Yes, Frenchtown school has high quality on site before and after care options for parents to use. More information about this service and registration links are available on our home page.
Q: Who pays the educational costs of students attending a Choice School?
A: The educational costs are paid by the New Jersey Department of Education directly to the Choice District.
Q: How would my child be transported to and from school in Frenchtown?
A: Transportation to and from school is provided by your district of residence or they may provide a family with aid in lieu. Aid in lieu is money to help cover your costs of transporting your child to and from school using your own vehicle.
Q: How can I get more information or answers to questions about the School Choice program?
A: You can use the links to the state web pages on Frenchtown's website, call the school, or email the Chief School Administrator, David Bailey, at dbailey@frenchtownschool.org.