Attendance Zone Review

Attendance zones are areas on a map that show which school a student should go to based on where they live. Each home address is linked to certain schools for elementary, middle, and high school.

RCPS uses these zones to make sure schools have the right number of students. RCPS is reviewing attendance zones to reduce overcrowding and ensure students can attend school close to home. If approved, these adjustments will result in some students zoned for a different elementary school. 

Current attendance zones are available on the City of Roanoke's website. Proposed changes and presentations will be posted to this webpage after the town halls. 

Roanoke City is growing and changing. Enrollment across the division has remained strong, and several schools are now operating near or above capacity. At the same time, other schools have available space. Reviewing attendance zones now allows RCPS to plan ahead, balance enrollment, and make the best use of existing facilities.

In 2024, RCPS worked with Spectrum Design to complete a Facilities Feasibility Study that examined enrollment trends, school capacities, and building conditions. The study found that enrollment has not declined as once projected and that both high schools are currently over capacity, as well as several elementary schools. While long-term plans include exploring options for a third high school, this review focuses on shorter-term, common-sense adjustments at the elementary level that can help balance enrollment and make sure each school is being used efficiently.

RCPS plans to make gradual, thoughtful changes to school attendance zones over several years. The goal is to reduce overcrowding, use school space wisely, and help students attend the school closest to where they live.

When the new Preston Park Elementary School opens in August 2026, it will have more room for students. Some nearby schools are currently overcrowded.. These small changes will help move some students to the new school and ease crowding in the surrounding schools. This does not mean that all of a school's students will be affected. For this initial update, approximately 250 students will be impacted across the following schools:

• Preston Park
• Monterey
• Round Hill
• Lincoln Terrace
• Fallon Park

RCPS will hold two town hall meetings to share the proposed new attendance zone map with families in the Preston Park area and nearby neighborhoods. At these meetings, families can see where changes might happen and give feedback. The proposed maps, including the list of affected addresses, are also available to download on this webpage under "Presentatons & Documents."

The School Board will vote on the updated map before the end of the school year. After the vote, RCPS will contact any families whose school assignment is changing so they know what to expect.

The School Board will vote on the proposed attendance zone adjustments on May 26, 2026. Impacted families will be notified directly through a letter, phone call, and email no later than June 4, 2026. 

RCPS is committed to ensuring students and families feel prepared and ready to attend a new school, if they are impacted by these proposed changes. 

•Academic and support services, including special education and English Learner programs, will continue without interruption. In addition, schools will hold tours and orientation events to ensure students feel comfortable.

Transportation changes will be minimal.