(Updated July, 2026)
Can you believe the kids go back to school so soon? 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 kick off a new school year.
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. Always look carefully for early release times during the first week!
2026–2027 Treasure Valley School Start Dates
- Nampa School District: August 10, 2026
- Boise School District: August 12, 2026
- West Ada School District: August 12, 2026
- Kuna School District: August 13, 2026
- Vallivue School District: August 19, 2026
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 always 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. Supply lists vary by school, class and teacher so make sure you have the right list before you start buying. Supplies aren’t just notebooks and markers, though, you’ll also likely want to get new clothes, uniforms, shoes, lunch boxes, backpacks, water bottles, etc.
Arrange Transport + After School Plans
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.
Confirm after-school care and extracurricular schedules and most importantly, how your child will get where they need to go. Programs can fill quickly, so check availability before school begins rather than waiting until the first week.
Catch Up on Emails & Forms
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!
There are likely a variety of forms you’ll need to submit before or soon after the start of the year. Be sure to look out for forms like:
-Returning-student registration
-Emergency contacts
-Authorized pickup lists
-Medical forms and medications
-Immunization records
-Sports physicals
-Technology agreements or device insurance
-Free and reduced-price meal applications
Schedule Haircuts, First-Day Photos and Final Summer Fun
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 – mention Boise With Kids for a discount!), crossing off one more Summer Bucket List item, ordering (or filling in) “first day of school” signs for pictures, 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!
Download the PDF below for 5 “First Day” pennant options to print and attach to a little stick for photos or to add to teacher gifts!
Ease Back Into a School Routine
A week or two before school starts, you should consider moving bedtime and wake-up time closer to the school-year schedule. It can also help to implement a little quiet reading or learning time each day, especially if your child is nervous about returning to class or struggled with a subject last year.
If math is a source of frustration or concern in your house, Mathnasium can help identify learning gaps, rebuild confidence and help kids feeling more confident and prepared. Schedule a free assessment to help everyone begin the new school year on solid ground.
Back-to-school excitement can come with plenty of nerves, too. Talk through what the first morning will look like, practice the route or drop-off process and give younger kids a chance to ask questions. If your school offers a meet-the-teacher night or supply drop-off, attending can make the first day feel much more familiar.
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!