Tips to Help You Prepare for the Start of School

With the start of the school year just around the corner, now is the time to prepare for that all-important first day and the daily school routine to follow.

San Mateo Patch will keep you up to speed with what you need to know about the beginning of the school year at the San Mateo-Foster City School District.

Here is a checklist that should help both the novice and seasoned veterans alike be prepared for the upcoming school year.

Be sure to look for our upcoming articles this week that will include where to stock up on school supplies, and tips for getting involved in your child's education.

School Readiness Checklist

Check school website for school supply list,  updates to dress codes and any change in school policies.

Buy school supplies.

Check to see if old clothes and shoes still fit.

Buy school clothes and shoes to replace those that are old or are too small to wear.

See if new lunch box is needed.

Buy snacks, sandwich bags and other items needed for school lunch and snacks.

Move from summer bedtime schedule to one right for school. Wake kids up at the same time they’ll need to get up for school each day.

Set up a staging area for backpacks.

Turn in paperwork for sports teams.

Make sure immunizations have been done and paperwork is current.

Make sure the summer reading and school assignments have been completed.

Dedicate a bin or space for school papers.

Write child’s name select school items.

Prepare for school transportation, which may include buying a bus pass, planning walking route, or arranging a carpool.

Locate or buy a flash drive and assure computer is ready for school assignments.

Make arrangements for after school childcare or activities.

Talk about school with student and make sure he or she is prepared.

Prepare info needed for filling out emergency forms and contact info schools will need completed during first week of school.

Set aside money to purchase gym clothes and special school supplies.

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