08/01/2026
To Our Incoming 6th Grade Parents and New-to-Kennedale ISD Families,
Welcome to the Kennedale Junior High family! We know the jump from elementary to junior high is a big milestone, for both students and parents. We also want to welcome our new students who are experiencing Kennedale ISD for the first time or possibly returning from another district. We are excited to have you join our Wildcat family. It's completely normal to have questions, excitement, and maybe even a few butterflies.
Our goal is to make this transition as smooth and positive as possible for everyone. From helping students find their classes to building new friendships and learning new routines, our teachers and staff are committed to ensuring every student feels welcomed, supported, and successful from day one.
We've put together this FAQ to answer some of the most common questions we receive from incoming 6th grade families and new-to-district families. If you don't see your question here, please reach out. We're always happy to help. Be sure to check out our other posts for the 2026–2027 bell schedule, Orientation information, and our new morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up procedures.
A Few FAQs for Our Incoming 6th Grade and New-to-District Families:
Q: Will someone help my child find their classes?
Absolutely! During the first days of school, teachers, counselors, and administrators will be throughout the building helping students find their classes and answer questions. Your child won't be on their own.
Q: What if my child gets lost?
No worries! Every adult on campus is happy to help. We expect students to need a little extra guidance as they learn the building, and we'll be there every step of the way.
Q: How long does it take students to adjust to junior high?
Most students settle into their routines much quicker than they expect. The first week is intentionally designed to help students learn their schedules, meet their teachers, build friendships, and become comfortable at KJH.
Q: What can I do as a parent to help?
Encourage your child, remind them that it's okay to be nervous, and let them know that everyone at Kennedale Junior High is excited to welcome them. Before long, they'll be navigating the junior high like pros!
Q: What time does school start and end?
School starts at 7:30 a.m. and ends at 3:15 p.m. The FIRST bell will ring at 7:25 a.m. to dismiss students to class from either the gym or the cafeteria. Any student participating in athletics will already be in certain locations practicing their respective sports.
Q: What if transportation changes during the day?
You may call the front office, and we will get a note to your student. Please call before 2:45 p.m. to ensure your student, or students, are made aware of the changes.
Q: How long are passing periods?
4 minutes
Q: What should my child bring on the first day of school?
We encourage students to bring the listed school supplies. You can view the school supply list here.
Q: Where do students get dropped off and picked up?
Students who ride the bus will be dropped off in the front of the building. The front of the building is for buses only. For morning drop-off, students who are car riders will be dropped off on the south side of the building, specifically by Doors 9 and 11. Door 9 will be for band students only. Everyone else will enter through Door 11. For afternoon pickup, students will be picked up in the back of the building by Door 20. Bus riders will exit the building in the front and proceed to their correct buses.
Q: How do bus riders know which bus to take?
You can find your bus route by accessing the Student Bus Route Portal on the Transportation page located on the Kennedale ISD website. If your student is planning to ride the bus, please make sure you have completed the Student Transportation Request Form. You can contact the Bus Barn at 817-572-1812.
Q: Are there lockers?
No. Students will keep their things throughout the day in a clear backpack per district policy.
Q: How can parents monitor grades and assignments?
Grades and attendance can be monitored regularly through the Parent Portal you created when you registered.
Q: Are students required to wear IDs?
Yes. Students must wear ID badges every day. We will go over the missing ID badge policy with the students during the first week of school.
Q: Will my child be allowed to have a cell phone?
No. Students are prohibited from having a cell phone from 7:25 a.m. until 3:15 p.m. If a phone is seen or heard, it will be confiscated immediately. More information can be found on the district's website.
Q: What is the latest I can pick my student up for an appointment?
The latest you can pick up your student for an appointment is 2:45 p.m.
Q: Where does my student turn in notes for my child being absent?
There will be a tray located in the front office for notes, or you can send them to the Attendance Clerk, Mrs. Scott ([email protected]).
Q: Can I eat lunch with my student?
No, you cannot eat lunch with your student. However, you can bring your student lunch and drop it off at the office before their scheduled lunch time (students will need to know food is coming). No DoorDash will be accepted for students. There are designated dates in November and March that allow parents to eat with students. Those dates will be communicated as they get closer.
We know starting junior high is a big milestone, and we're honored to be part of it. Our goal is for every student to feel safe, supported, and excited from the moment they walk through our doors. Don't forget we have Orientation on Wednesday, August 5, from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. We can't wait to welcome our newest Wildcats to Kennedale Junior High!
