As we prepare for the start of the second semester, James Madison Preparatory High School is announcing an update to our off-campus lunch policy, which will officially take effect on Tuesday, January 5, 2027.

The primary change in this updated policy centers on student safety and transportation eligibility: nondriving students may no longer leave campus for lunch under any circumstances, regardless of their grade level. Moving forward, off-campus lunch privileges are reserved exclusively for 11th- and 12th-grade students who drive themselves to school.

Key Details of the Updated Policy

Driving Requirement: Off-campus lunch permissions will only be granted to 11th and 12th graders who actively drive themselves to school.

Prohibition of Non-Driving Departure: Non-driving students are not permitted to leave campus on foot or ride as passengers in any vehicle during lunch.

Passenger Restrictions: Authorized student drivers are strictly prohibited from transporting non-driving students, as well as any 9th- or 10th-grade students, off campus.

Why the Policy Is Changing

Allowing non-driving students to leave campus on foot or ride with other drivers creates significant safety, supervision, and liability concerns. Off school grounds, the school cannot ensure pedestrian safety, verify vehicular insurance coverage, or maintain direct accountability for non-driving students. Restricting off-campus travel to authorized student drivers allows administration to maintain a safe environment for all students.

We appreciate the cooperation of our students, parents, and community members as we implement these adjustments to prioritize student safety. For any questions regarding registration, notarized agreement forms, or eligibility checks prior to the January 5 effective date, please contact Mr. White via email at pwhite@jmphs.org.

To read the full policy: Students & Parents | James Madison Preparatory High School