Can you believe the kids go back to school next week? No matter how prepared I think I’m going to be, somehow it always catches me a little off guard. And even though I’ve been doing this for a while now with my kids, I always feel like there’s something I forgot. If you feel the same, I have your back to school guide for Boise and the surrounding areas so you can feel more prepared for your kids to head back to school next week!
Know Your Dates
The dates are a little different for each district, but I found it’s a good idea to get the schedule for the entire school year and put it in our family calendar. That way I’m not only prepared for the first day, but I also know all the early release days, parent meetings, holidays, etc.
Boise School District Schedule
West Ada School District Schedule
Nampa School District Schedule
Have a Meal Plan
Meal plans vary by school, but it’s good to have a plan for meals so you’re not panicked at the last minute while throwing chips and an apple into an Albertson’s bag and calling it good! Know if you’re planning on packing lunches or paying for school lunch, but also your plan for breakfast. Some schools offer a breakfast option, and some daycares will handle breakfast before they drop your kids off at school. Whichever option works for your family, it’s good to have a plan.
Get Your Supplies
Any other last minute shoppers out there? You’re not alone! Be sure to get the correct list from your district or directly from your teacher. But supplies aren’t just notebooks and markers, you’ll also want to get clothes, uniforms, shoes, lunch boxes, backpacks, water bottles, etc. (We love shopping for school “gear” at Al’s Sporting Goods—it’s our annual tradition!)
Arrange Transport
I will inevitably be in the drop off and pick up line most days, but if your kids take the bus, make sure you and your kiddo know all about which bus to be on, where, and at what time. Or, make a plan with your spouse or family about who is handling pick up and drop off now so you’re not scrambling for a plan next week. Many schools and afterschool programs have you submit names and contact information of “authorized” drop off and pick up people so make sure you ask if there are any special forms you need to fill out ahead of time.
Catch Up on Emails
A full time job in itself! Your emails from school will answer so many of these questions, though I know it’s daunting to jump into the overflowing inbox. But you might find out about a sneak peek day/night to drop off school supplies before the first day, an app you need to download, or more information you didn’t think to ask about. Better to read them all now than on day one! If you’re not getting any emails from your school, give them a call ASAP to make sure they have your correct contact information!
Don’t forget the extras!
Everyone has some extra stuff they want to do before the first day. That might be getting a fresh haircut for all the kids (we love Sit Still and Radd Cuts), hitting up one last outdoor movie night, ordering (or filling in) “first day of school” signs for pictures, looking up some new easy lunch recipes, or reading some books with your kids about starting a new grade. Whatever extras you want to do before school starts, now is the time to do it!
If you’re feeling frazzled, I hope this back to school guide for Boise helped make you feel more prepared for next week. Is there anything I forgot? Let me know!