Whether you're a new Greenwich family or just need a quick reference, understanding school hours is essential for daily planning. Here's everything you need to know about Greenwich elementary school schedules, including start times, dismissal, and those tricky early release days.
Want the full holiday calendar? See our complete Greenwich Public Schools Holiday Calendar 2025.
Standard Elementary School Hours
Greenwich Public Schools elementary schools operate on two different bell schedules:
Early Start Schools (8:15 AM)
- Hamilton Avenue School
- Julian Curtiss School - See full calendar
- New Lebanon School
These schools begin at 8:15 AM with drop-off available starting at approximately 7:30 AM. Dismissal is at 2:45 PM.
Regular Start Schools (8:45 AM)
- Cos Cob School
- Glenville School
- International School at Dundee
- North Mianus School
- North Street School
- Old Greenwich School
- Parkway School
- Riverside School
These schools start at 8:45 AM with dismissal at 3:15 PM.
Why the Different Start Times?
Greenwich Public Schools implemented staggered start times to:
- Optimize bus routes and transportation efficiency
- Reduce traffic congestion during drop-off
- Accommodate different community needs
The Board of Education periodically reviews these times and has considered adjustments for cost savings and student well-being.
Drop-Off Guidelines
Most Greenwich elementary schools allow early drop-off:
- Doors open: Typically 30 minutes before the start bell
- Supervision begins: When doors open
- Latest arrival: Before the start bell to avoid being marked tardy
Check with your specific school for exact drop-off procedures, designated areas, and any parent volunteer requirements for supervision.
Dismissal Procedures
Regular Dismissal
- Early start schools: 2:45 PM
- Regular start schools: 3:15 PM
Dismissal Options
Most schools offer multiple dismissal methods:
- Walker/Rider: Students walk home or ride bikes
- Parent Pickup: Car line or designated pickup area
- Bus: School bus transportation
- After-School Program: Extended day care on campus
Changing your child's dismissal method typically requires a written note or call to the school office before a specified cutoff time (often 2:00 PM).
Early Release Days
Early dismissal days require special planning. Greenwich elementary schools typically have early release for:
Professional Development Days
Teachers participate in training while students are released early. These occur several times per year on scheduled dates.
Conference Days
Parent-teacher conferences in fall and spring often involve early release. Students are dismissed early so teachers can meet with families.
Holiday Eves
The day before Thanksgiving and the last day before winter break typically have early release.
Typical Early Release Times
Elementary schools generally dismiss between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM on early release days, but exact times vary. Always verify with your school.
💡 Get automatic early release reminders. Try Schoolwise and never be caught off guard by schedule changes. Ask "What time is pickup today?" and get instant answers — try the demo.
Delayed Opening Schedule
Weather or emergencies may cause delayed openings:
Two-Hour Delay
- Early start schools: Begin at 10:15 AM (instead of 8:15 AM)
- Regular start schools: Begin at 10:45 AM (instead of 8:45 AM)
- Morning activities and programs are typically canceled
- Dismissal remains at regular time
Delayed Opening Announcements
The district announces delays through:
- Email and text alerts to registered parents
- District website
- Local news stations
- Social media channels
Sign up for GPS emergency alerts to receive notifications directly.
After-School Programs
Greenwich elementary schools offer various after-school options:
School-Based Programs
Many schools have on-site extended day programs running from dismissal until 6:00 PM. These typically offer:
- Homework help
- Enrichment activities
- Supervised play
- Snacks
Important Note
Julian Curtiss and some other schools offer after-school programming Monday through Friday, except Wednesdays. Check your school's specific schedule.
Planning Around the Schedule
Morning Routine Tips
- Build in buffer time—arriving stressed affects the whole day
- Know your school's drop-off procedures to avoid delays
- Have a backup plan for late mornings
Afternoon Planning
- Note which days have early dismissal at the start of each month
- Arrange backup pickup if you can't make dismissal time
- Communicate any changes to the school office early in the day
Calendar Integration
Add all early release days and scheduled delays to your calendar at the start of the school year. Set reminders for the day before so you can plan accordingly.
Finding Your School's Exact Schedule
For the most accurate, current information:
- School Website: Each GPS elementary school maintains its own schedule
- Back-to-School Packet: Includes detailed schedule information
- School Office: Call with specific questions
- District Website: greenwichschools.org for district-wide information
When Questions Arise
Parents frequently wonder:
- "What time is pickup today?"
- "Is it early dismissal on Friday?"
- "What time does school start after a delay?"
These simple questions shouldn't require digging through emails or calling the school office. That's why many Greenwich parents use Schoolwise—it reads all your school communications and gives you instant answers when you need them.
No more guessing about schedules. No more scrambling when you suddenly remember it might be early release day.
Related Reading for Greenwich Parents
- Julian Curtiss School Calendar 2025-2026
- Greenwich Public Schools Holiday Calendar 2025
- Back to School in Greenwich CT
- Never Miss Another School Event
Get instant answers about Greenwich school schedules. Download Schoolwise for iPhone or Android and always know what time school starts and ends. Or try the web demo first.
Want Schoolwise for your school? Request your school — we're expanding to new schools every week.