Back to School Checklist

The ‘don’t forgets’ for the big day back.

by Jennifer Morrow


Orientation or Meet the Teacher Night: In most school districts, if a student is starting middle school or high school the school provides a student orientation. Students take a tour of the school, get their schedule, meet the staff, make new friends and have an opportunity to ask questions. Breaking the ice during orientation makes the first day of school less stressful. Most elementary schools host a meet the teacher night where students can bring school supplies, find their desk, meet new friends and ask questions. If the student is new to the school, they can take a tour and meet the principal. 

Safety: Besides letting school officials know about a child’s special dietary needs they also need to be made aware of other allergies and medical conditions. If a child is to take any medication at school such as ADHD medication or inhalers for asthma, the school needs a note from the prescribing doctor. If a student has an individual education plan from a previous school, it needs to be in the child’s transferring records so teachers and intervention specialists can prepare for the student’s academic success. Also, make sure children know who is authorized to pick them up after school. Make sure the school has all emergency numbers and if cell phone or work numbers change during the school year, make sure to make the changes with the school office.

Open Lines of Communication: Meeting the teacher at open house or orientation can get the year off to a positive start. Parents can let the teacher know of any special needs their child may have or any dietary restrictions. There are times throughout the year when students will enjoy special treats in the classroom and if a student is allergic to or sensitive to foods such as peanuts or chocolate, the teacher needs to be made aware to insure the student’s safety. Students can write a letter of introduction to their new teacher. The letter can includes their favorite subject, activities, sports, books, movies, treats, and anything else of special interest to the student. 

Establish a Homework Routine: Providing a quiet place for students to do homework is important in all grades. Staring the school year off with proper study habits will carry over the whole year. Make sure students have the appropriate school supplies at home. When you get the supply list, purchase double of everything and it will ensure any supplies needed for homework and projects will be on hand. Other good supplies to have on hand are computer paper and ink cartridges for your printer. 

Dress Code: Schools usually post their dress code on their Web site or a copy can be obtained from the school office. Parents need to consult the dress code prior to clothes shopping. Some schools have strict policies on writing on T-shirts and the length of shorts and skirts. Consideration also needs to be made with footwear choices. Keep in mind students run and play at recess, not just in gym class, and flip flops may not be the best option.   

First Day Help: Young children especially may have trouble the first day of school. They may miss home and feel they may be missing out on activities while they are at school. Tuck a note in their lunch box letting them know they are being thought of and how they can share all their first day experiences when they get home. A special photo from the summer may also be a comfort and can be kept in a book bag and the student can peek at it during transitions throughout the day.