The first few weeks of school can feel like a whirlwind. Papers come flying out of backpacks, emails start flooding your inbox, and suddenly you’re juggling bus routes, passwords, and parent nights. It’s a lot!
Here’s the good news: with a little organization at the beginning of the year, you can save yourself a ton of stress later. Think of this as your back-to-school parent cheat sheet — the things worth tackling now so the rest of the year runs a little smoother.
Go Through All That Paperwork
Yes, the giant stack that comes home on day one. It’s tempting to shove it aside, but buried in there are forms that actually matter (like bus information or internet use agreements). I recommend setting aside 20 minutes, spreading it all out on the table, and knocking it out in one go.
If you’ve got multiple kids, brace yourself—you may feel like you’re running a small office with all the signatures required. Just remember: pens, patience, and maybe a little chocolate go a long way.
Fill Out and Return the Important Stuff
Some forms are time-sensitive, so don’t let them sit too long. A few common ones you’ll probably see:
- Free and Reduced Lunch Application – Even if you’re not sure you qualify, check anyway. Approval can help your family and sometimes even benefits the school.
- Acceptable Use Form – This covers how your child can use school tech and internet. Go over it together before signing.
- Directory Consent – Decide what info you’re comfortable sharing (like yearbook details).
- Transportation Information – Double-check pickup and drop-off details.
Pro tip: Copy or take a quick photo of each completed form before sending it back. You’ll thank yourself later.
Skim the Handbook and Code of Conduct
It’s not exactly fun reading, but the school handbook and district code of conduct are full of “good to know” things, like attendance rules, dress code, and discipline policies. A quick skim now could save you from surprises later.
I’ll have a future post breaking down the Code of Conduct—because let’s be honest, it reads more like a novel than a quick guide. I’ll do the heavy lifting so you don’t have to wade through all the fine print.
Print the School Calendar
This one is a lifesaver. Highlight the days that matter most (early releases, holidays, testing days) and stick it on the fridge or a family bulletin board. I also like to plug the key dates into my phone calendar so I get reminders before the big events.
Learn How to Check Assignments and Schedules
Whether your school uses Google Classroom, Canvas, or Planbook, figure out how to log in and where to find daily lessons and schedules. You’ll be glad you know where everything is before assignments start rolling in.
Download the Apps
Most schools and districts use apps for communication, transportation updates, lunch accounts, and even grades. Take a few minutes to download them early and get logged in before you need them.
Gather the Right Contact Info
You don’t want to be hunting for phone numbers when your child leaves their lunchbox on the bus. Save the school’s main number and address in your phone right away. It’s also handy to have direct contacts for:
- Your child’s teacher(s)
- The school counselor
- The front office/attendance clerk
- School transportation
- ESE chair (if your child receives special services)
Keep a printed copy of this info somewhere visible at home, too.
Review Any Plans Your Child Has
If your child has a health plan, progress monitoring plan, 504, or IEP, refresh yourself on the details now. Make sure their teachers know what’s in place and ensure that accommodations are being followed from the start.
Get Involved (If You Can)
Check if your school has a PTA, PTO, or other parent groups. Even if you can’t commit to volunteering all the time, joining is a great way to stay connected and meet other families.
Know How to Report Bullying
Hopefully you’ll never need this, but it’s good to know the process upfront. Many districts have online forms or designated staff for handling reports. Save that info somewhere you can access quickly. Make sure you share the information with your child.
Send a Teacher Intro Email (Later)
During the second or third week of school—once things have settled down a little—send your child’s teacher a quick email. Share a few details about your child, like what they love, what challenges them, or strategies that work well. It doesn’t have to be long, but it helps the teacher see your child as more than just a name on the roster.
Final Thoughts
Back-to-school season always feels busy, but it doesn’t have to feel chaotic. If you take a little time now to sort through paperwork, set up contacts, and figure out the tools your school uses, the rest of the year will feel much more manageable.
Most importantly—give yourself some grace. No parent does it all perfectly. The goal isn’t to check every single box, but to feel prepared and connected so you can support your child (and yourself!) all year long.
