Seven Things You Can Do for a Strong Start to the New School Year

The first day of school is Tuesday, September 3 for all schools following the traditional academic calendar. Samuel W. Tucker started on Thursday, August 1, as they follow a modified academic calendar. Please see the traditional calendar (PDF) and modified calendar (PDF) for school holidays, teacher work days and other important dates to write on your calendar today! You can also subscribe to your school’s calendar in your favorite calendar app.

One Plan Transportation to and from School
Families should receive bus schedules by the end of the week. Bus schedules are not posted online for safety reasons. Students living one mile or less from their elementary schools or one and a half miles or less from their secondary schools are designated walkers. Exceptions may be granted to neighborhoods based upon specific safety issues along the expected walk path to/from the campus. Map your plan today.
Two Supply Lists
The lists are out now! Each elementary and middle school has a specific list of supplies needed for the school year for each grade. Supply lists are posted on your school’s website. Stock up on these items so your child can start their school year on the right foot.
Three Stay Up-to-Date on the Latest Happenings at ACPS and Your School
Read our weekly newsletter ACPS Express when it arrives each Monday morning in your email inbox. You will be signed up automatically through the email address you submit to your school. You can also sign up for your school’s e-newsletter. ACPS schools are also on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.  Follow ACPS and your school on social media today!

ACPS also has a YouTube channel and ACPS-TV, local cable channel 71 and ACPS-TV online, where you can watch School Board meetings live.

Four Download our Mobile App
Anytime and anywhere, the ACPS Mobile App gives you access to the latest information about ACPS in the palm of your hand. You will find: school and division event calendars, breakfast and lunch menus, school contact information, access to your child’s lunch money account, news and announcements, sports information, access to Parent Access (PowerSchool), an anonymous Tip Line, and more.
Five Save the Date for Back-to-School Night
Back-to-School Nights should be added to your calendar ASAP. These events are a crucial connection between parents and teachers. It’s a chance to meet teachers and administrators, learn more about your child’s education in the 2019-20 school year, visit the classroom, and gain an understanding to prep your child for their new grade.
Six Apply for Free and Reduced-Price Meals
Apply online for free and reduced-priced meals for the 2019-20 school year. Families must apply each year. Application forms will be distributed to all families in Welcome Packets that are received on the first day of school. Application forms will also be available at Central Office and at the front office in each school. To apply for free or reduced-price meals, you should only fill out one application per household. Applications may be submitted at any time during the school year.

Note: This year, ALL students at Cora Kelly and William Ramsay will receive free breakfast and lunch and DO NOT have to complete an application.

Seven Commit to Good Attendance
Plan for your child to be at school on time each day, every day. Absenteeism in the first month of school can predict poor attendance throughout the school year. Also, forming good habits in the early years has a long-term impact throughout a student’s school years. Get your school year started off on the right foot and carry it through all year long.

Be a dinosaur and ROAR into the new school year!

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