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Nationwide Emergency Alert Test, Oct 4
October 4, 2023    

FCUSD Community:

Nationwide Emergency Alert Test on Wednesday, October 4, 2023

Please be aware that on Wednesday, October 4, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), in coordination with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), will conduct a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System and Wireless Emergency Alerts. This test will send a message to all smart televisions, radios, and cell phones. Depending on your work schedule, this may occur during class time and be startling. The test is anticipated to last approximately one minute and is accompanied by a unique tone and vibration. The scheduled time for this test is 11:20 a.m. (PST) / 2:20 p.m. (EST).

According to the fema.gov website, the purpose of the October 4 test is to ensure that the systems continue to be effective means of warning the public about emergencies, particularly those on the national level. People who receive the test alert on their phones will see a message that reads: "THIS IS A TEST of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System. No action is needed."

In case the October 4 test is postponed due to widespread severe weather or other significant events, the backup testing date is October 11. To learn more about this, click here.

What should students and staff do during the test?

During tomorrow's national emergency alert test, students and staff should maintain a calm and orderly demeanor. While the test may cause a momentary disruption during school activities, it is a reminder that safety plans from the national level to the school level are in place and regular familiarization and practice are important. 

This is also a good reminder for all to please become familiar with your School’s Safety Plan posted on your school’s website. By adhering to safety guidelines, students and staff can contribute to a safer and more organized response during an emergency situation. 

2024-25 Instructional Calendar community survey

We need your input on "What are your thoughts or questions about the proposed school calendars for the 2024-25 school year?" 

As the District is planning the 2024-25 Instructional Calendar we are reaching out to our community for thoughts and input. Attached are two proposed calendars that were presented at the September 21 Board Meeting. 

Notable differences between the two calendars are the school year school start date and the time off in February.

  • Calendar A: The first day of school would be August 8; February 17 - 21 would be a full week off of school, which would combine the Presidents Day holidays (February 17 and 18) with the three following days off.
  • Calendar B: A later first day of school on August 13, and maintains the two-day Presidents Day holidays (February 17 and 18).

To gather your feedback, we're using a tool called ThoughtExchange. All voices count, so your participation is crucial and valued.

Click here to participate: https://tejoin.com/scroll/171139163

You'll be asked to respond to one open-ended question, consider and assign stars to some of the ideas shared by others (20 to 30 is ideal), and learn what's important to the group.

Your thoughts and stars are confidential. You can come back as often as you'd like to participate and, in fact, we ask that you do come back to star some of the new ideas shared since you first participated. The ratings will help us understand the most important areas to focus on.

This survey will remain open until Monday, October 9, 2023.