Quick Links
👋 Welcome to Escuela Key!
Whether you’re new to Escuela Key or getting ready for another school year, start with the updates and checklist below, then use the rest of this page as a quick reference.
Last updated: August 2026
📢 APS Announcements
Complete Your Back-to-School Packet
Complete this first. The annual Online Back-to-School Packet must be completed to access upcoming information in ParentVUE, including bus and classroom assignments.
Complete the packet in ParentVUE →
Aug. 20: Bus assignments • Aug. 24: Classroom and student information
Bus Tracking Is Changing
WheresTheBus will not be available at the start of the school year. APS is transitioning to Stopfinder, beginning with a limited pilot.
No action is needed for Key families right now. APS will provide instructions when Stopfinder becomes available.
🎒 Before School Starts
Check Your School Supply List
View 2026–2027 Grade-Level Supply Lists →
Already ordered a PTA school supply kit? It will be delivered directly to your child’s classroom.
Questions? schoolsupplies@keypta.org
Starting Kindergarten or 1st Grade?
Our parent-created guide covers what to expect during the first days and weeks of school, plus helpful tips from Key families.
Prepare for the First Day
Complete your child’s backpack dismissal tag, make sure they know how they are getting home, and label backpacks, lunch boxes, and water bottles.
New to APS?
Make sure your registration and required health forms are complete before school starts.
🚌 Transportation & Arrival
School begins at 9:00 AM. On morning-recess days, arrival begins at 8:30 AM; on days without morning recess, arrival begins at 8:45 AM. There is no morning recess on the first day.
🚌 Bus Riders
If your child is eligible for APS transportation, find their assigned bus stop and transportation information in ParentVUE .
APS Transportation Call Center:
703-228-6640
6:00 AM–6:00 PM
🚗 Car Riders: Kiss & Ride
Students arriving by car should use the Kiss & Ride line. Please do not park in the school parking lot.
🚲 Walking & Biking
Bicycle racks are available near the drop-off area and Door A1.
📣 Stay Connected
These channels serve different purposes. You do not need to use every one.
ParentSquare
Used for teacher messages, school and APS updates, alerts, and Principal communications.
This Week at Key + PTA Email
This Week at Key (TWAK) is the PTA’s weekly roundup of news, events, deadlines, reminders, and volunteer opportunities. The PTA Email List is used for important PTA updates.
PTA WhatsApp
Join the PTA community and your grade-level group for timely reminders and connection with other Key families.
Email comms@keypta.org with your name and your student’s grade(s).
Other Community Channels
Join Padres Charlan for parent conversations, recommendations, activities, childcare resources, and other community information, or follow the PTA on social media for photos and event highlights.
Padres Charlan • Facebook • Instagram • X
Get Involved
Join the PTA or volunteer in whatever way works for your family.
🏫 School Day Basics
📅 First Days & Hours
- K–5 First Day: Monday, August 31, 2026
- VPI / Pre-K First Day: Tuesday, September 1, 2026
- Regular School Day: 9:00 AM–3:50 PM
- Early Release: 1:30 PM
Escuela Key Hours & Phone Numbers →
See upcoming events on the PTA Calendar.
📞 Attendance
- Report absences through ParentVUE .
- Students arriving after 9:00 AM should check in at the Front Office.
- For early pickups or dismissal changes, email EscuelaKeyAttendance@apsva.us and your child’s teacher.
Attendance: 703-228-4212
🍎 Breakfast & Lunch
- Students may bring food from home or purchase breakfast and lunch at school.
🕖 Extended Day
- Before-school care begins at 7:00 AM.
- After-school care is available until 6:00 PM.
- Drop-off and pick-up take place at Door D12.
Questions? key.extendedday@apsva.us or 703-228-8486.
📞 Need Help?
🐝 Key PTA
Find PTA information, events, programs, volunteer opportunities, and resources at KeyPTA.org.
