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The state's ESE Parent Survey is underway
The state's ESE Parent Survey is underway

Feb. 5, 2026 - Each year, the Florida Department of Education surveys parents of children receiving special education services to determine how well their children’s schools are partnering with them.

Special Assignment Requests (SARs)

Learn about Special Assignment Requests

Parents can apply for options besides their child's zoned school or magnet programs. Special Assignment Requests (SARs) enable families to apply to schools outside their child's neighborhood (zoned) when space is available at another school. The application window closed January 30, 2026.

Watch our recorded event on YouTube, ‘A Guide to PCS Special Assignment Requests.' 

Learn what SAR means, how to apply, and how to decide if an SAR is the right choice for your family.

Access the recording at www.youtube.com/live/Pk3DebGyTMs?

How to Apply
  1. Sign into your Focus Parent Portal Account.
  2. Find your child's name in the left-side menu. 
  3. Click "<" next to your child's name to expand the menu.
  4. Select Special Assignment Request 2026-27.
  5. Choose your desired school and submit your request. 
Please note:
  • New to PCS? Complete the Online Application first.  Find it under "Forms" on the left-side menu.  Once finished you can follow the instructions above to apply.
  • Don't see your child's name in the menu? Your child must be linked to your account. You can link them at your school or by contacting Student Assignment at 727.588.6210 or StudentAssignment@pcsb.org. 
  • Returning students or FES scholarship students: Click "<" by your child's name.  Then select Forms Summary.  In the center panel, look for the Inactive Student Re-Enrollment Form under "Available Forms." Complete this form to update address, contact information and grade level. Once updated, you will be able to apply.

Important Information:

  • SARs cannot be submitted for District Application Programs or Educational Alternative Services as these have separate application processes.

  • All SARs are granted based on available space using functional capacity.  Functional Capacity

  • Kindergarten SARs are processed last, as most families enroll in the summer. This helps us better assess available space.

Transportation

Bus transportation is not provided for students on a Special Assignment. Families must arrange safe, on-time transportation.

Duration

If granted, a SAR is valid through the school’s highest grade level, as long as:

  • The school has capacity.

  • All zoned students can still attend.

 Communication

  • Families granted a SAR will be notified by email (based on the email listed in the application).

  • Families not granted a SAR are automatically placed on a wait list.

  • You will be contacted only if a seat becomes available. 

 

If requests exceed available seats, a wait list will be created in the order applications are received. For more information, see our Student Assignment Policy.

 

For assistance, contact Student Assignment at 727.588.6210 or StudentAssignment@pcsb.org