New Family FAQ

We’re so glad you’re joining the Fox community! Whether you’re preparing for the first day of school or settling in mid-year, this page answers many of the most common questions new families have about Fox.

Back to School Night

What is it?

Back to School Night is a parent-only event held within the first few weeks of school. You’ll hear from the principal and PTA, meet your child’s teacher, and learn about the curriculum, classroom routines, volunteer opportunities, and more.

Before School Starts

Are there forms to fill out?

Yes. In early August, the Belmont-Redwood Shores School District (BRSSD) will email you a link to update your student’s information online. You’ll get a separate email for each child. Please complete this as soon as possible—it includes important emergency contact info.

If anything is missing (like immunization or oral health records), the school will follow up with you directly.

Class Assignments & Connecting with Families

When will I find out my child’s teacher?

You’ll receive an email from the District by the Sunday before school starts, provided you’ve completed the Student Information Update.

How can I connect with other parents?

Joining the Fox PTA, newsletter, or Facebook group is a great way to meet other families and stay in the loop.

Contacting Teachers & Staff

How do I contact my child’s teacher?

Teachers will explain their communication preferences at Back to School Night. You can also find teacher emails on the Fox website or through ParentSquare.

Need to reach the District?

Visit the BRSSD website, or call the District Office at 650-637-4800.

School Hours & Arrival

What time does school start and end?

Visit our Fox Bell Schedule for start/end times by grade.

What’s the safest way to walk to school?

We encourage families to walk if possible. Fox has multiple front gates and a back gate near the playground. Review our Safe Routes to School plan for walking and drop-off guidelines.

Where does my child go on the first day?

Parents may walk children to the classroom door (please don’t enter the room). TK and K use the K gate near the library; other grades may enter through the main, side, or back gates.

Drop-Off & Pick-Up After Day One

Morning Drop-Off:

Students may be dropped off at the K gate, side gate, back gate (walkers), or front drop-off lane (drivers). Please stay in your car and wait for staff to help your child out safely. Do not drop off before 8:10 AM—there’s no supervision.

Afternoon Pick-Up:

Walkers can be picked up at the flagpole. Drivers should use the car line. TK/K teachers will walk students to the front and release them individually to a known adult. Please exit campus promptly, as other classes may still be in session.

Absences, Tardies & Early Pick-Ups

If your child will be late or absent, call the Fox Attendance Line at 650-620-2812 or email macevedo@brssd.org and your child’s teacher.

For early pick-ups, check in at the office. A staff member will contact the classroom and have your child sent to the office.

Emergencies

We take safety seriously. Fox has a comprehensive Disaster Plan for emergencies like fires and earthquakes. Emergency Procedures

Forgotten Items

If your child forgets something (lunch, homework, jacket, etc.), drop it off at the office—do not go directly to the classroom. The office will notify the teacher.

After-School Care

Fox partners with San Carlos Belmont Aftercare (SCBA), which is located on campus. TK–1st graders are escorted to the program; older students walk there on their own.

School Supplies

Fox provides all classroom supplies—no need to bring anything! Just send your child with a backpack, snack, lunch (if not eating school lunch), and water bottle.

Classroom supplies are funded by the Education Commitment Campaign (a partnership between PTA and SchoolForce). Contributions are welcome but completely optional. Learn More

Meals at School

Breakfast and lunch are free for all students—no need to sign up. Monthly menus are shared in the principal’s newsletter.

There are no microwaves or fridges available, and staff cannot heat food.

Food Guidelines

Classroom-specific food restrictions will be shared by teachers.

Fox does not allow birthday food treats, but non-food items like party favors are welcome.

If your child has allergies, please notify the teacher and complete any required district forms.

Field Trips

All grades (TK–5) take field trips aligned with classroom learning. Thanks to PTA support, transportation and fees are covered. Parents are encouraged to chaperone (volunteer clearance required).

Field Trip Policy & Volunteer Info

Support for Students with Special Needs

Fox has specialists and support services available. If you think your child may need support, speak with the teacher or principal.

Learn more through the Opening Doors PTA, BRSSD’s Special Services PTA.