Wissahickon School District offers advice, events, and tips to prepare for heading Back to School

It’s almost that time. The big box stores have lined their aisles with backpacks, lunch boxes, and notebook paper. The football teams are memorizing playbooks. Fall is nearly here. Students in the Wissahickon School District, kindergarten through 12^th grades, will report back to the classrooms on Monday, Aug. 26.

What can students and their families do to start back into that School Days Routine? This week is a good time to begin the preparations.

“With less than two weeks to the start of school, families can start getting ready by visiting the Back to School webpage of the Wissahickon School District website,” advised Kristen Rawlings, Communications Coordinator for Wissahickon School District. “Important dates, school supply lists, required forms, school meal payments, and other information are accessible there.”

More detailed information will be available today via the parent portal, so that students can understand their upcoming schedules a week in advance of the official start.

“Teacher assignments, class schedules, and bus schedules will be available via the parent portal of Infinite Campus beginning Aug. 19,” said Rawlings. “Families should also mark their calendar for upcoming events including Back to School Night at their students’ school. This is a great opportunity to meet your students’ teachers and learn about class expectations.”

Rawlings said that the events hosted by the Home and School Associations (HSAs) is another way to give families an opportunity to meet and mingle with each other. The District calendar lists all events and parents can even sync them to their phone.

The district makes a point to host several events, especially for students transitioning into new spaces.

“Starting a new school year can be exciting and a little nerve-wracking. For students in new buildings (starting kindergarten or transitioning to middle or high school), families should plan to attend the orientation events to meet the staff and other students and learn about school expectations,” said Rawlings. “Kindergarten orientation for all elementary schools is Aug. 22 from 4 to 6 p.m. Students even get to ride a bus for the first time!”

It isn’t just those that are new to school, but those new to different buildings that are accommodated with district-wide events.

“Incoming sixth graders are invited to attend Back to School Night before school starts on Aug. 21 from 6 to 8 p.m.,” said Rawlings. “Incoming ninth graders may attend the Freshmen Orientation on Aug. 23 from 8 a.m. to noon, hosted by our student leaders, Wiss Link.”

Rawlings also shared other tips to support area students as they return to school:

1. Establish a routine

• Sleep schedule: Begin adjusting their sleep schedule a week or two before school starts so they can get used to waking up early.
• Daily routine: Create a morning and evening routine that includes time for breakfast, dressing, and getting ready for school.

2. Talk about school positively

• Discuss expectations: Talk about what the school day will be like, including activities they will do, meeting new friends, and learning new things.
• Answer questions: Encourage your child to ask questions and express any concerns they might have about school. Address their worries with understanding and reassurance.

3. Get organized and set academic expectations

• Involve your child: Let your child help choose their school supplies, such as a backpack, lunchbox, and notebooks. Label all personal belongings.
• Discuss goals: Talk about the importance of trying their best and the value of learning new things.
• Study area: Set up a quiet, well-lit space at home where your child can do homework or read. Ensure it's stocked with necessary supplies.

According to the communications coordinator, these tips can “help students to kick off the year on the right foot and feel more confident.”

1. Set clear goals

• Academic goals: Think about what you want to achieve this year, whether it's improving in a particular subject, making honor roll, or getting better grades.
• Personal goals: Consider setting goals for making new friends, joining a club, or participating in extracurricular activities. Check out the Activities webpages on our website. There’s something for everyone!

2. Get organized and establish a routine

• Use a planner: Keep track of assignments, tests, and activities in a planner or digital calendar. This will help you stay on top of your work and avoid last-minute stress.
• Organize your supplies: Keep your backpack, notebooks, and folders organized so you can easily find what you need.
• Consistent schedule: Stick to a daily routine that includes time for homework, extracurricular activities, and relaxation. A regular sleep schedule is also important for staying focused during the day.
• Balanced diet: Eat healthy meals and snacks to keep your energy levels up throughout the day. Breakfast is free for all students at WSD!

4. Stay engaged in class 

• Participate: Don’t be afraid to raise your hand, ask questions, and participate in class discussions. Engaging in class can help you better understand the material.
• Take good notes: Develop a note-taking system that works for you, whether it’s writing down key points or highlighting important information.

5. Develop good study habits

• Find your study style: Figure out whether you study best alone, with a group, or in a quiet space. Use methods like flashcards, summarizing notes, or teaching concepts to others.
• Avoid procrastination: Break down big projects into smaller tasks and start early. Avoid cramming by reviewing material regularly.

Additionally, Rawlings offered five tips for students who may be feeling anxious about school.

• Know that you are not alone: Teachers will use a variety of classroom activities to support you in getting to know other students in your class and have fun. At the start of the year, teachers and students work together to help create a welcoming classroom community.
• Relaxation: Balance your academic responsibilities with activities you enjoy, like sports, hobbies, or spending time with friends and family. Make time to unwind and do things that make you happy. This can help you recharge and reduce stress.
• Use our learning resources: If you’re struggling with schoolwork, take advantage of the learning resources. There are options built into the school schedule as well as after school tutoring. View Learning Resources on the WSD website. 
• Seek help when needed: If you’re struggling emotionally or feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to ask for help from a teacher, counselor, or friend. There are trained counselors and mental health first aid staff across the district to support students (look for a koala on their door). View our Mental Health Resource webpage.
• Celebrate achievements: Take time to celebrate your successes, big or small, throughout the year. Don’t be discouraged by setbacks or difficulties. Treat them as opportunities to learn and grow!