A child sits behind a table with books, colored pencils, an apple, glasses and a clock, preparing to go back to school.

Get ready to pack a backpack and sharpen a pencil as the start of the new school year approaches. Elmore Public Schools are set to begin on Tuesday, August 8th, Autauga Public Schools on Wednesday, August 9th, and Montgomery Public Schools on Thursday, August 10th.

Fairs

To celebrate the beginning of a new school year for parents and students, a couple of events will occur:

If you are in need of school supplies for this year, the Crystal Johnson FREE School Supply Giveaway will occur on Thursday, August 3rd from 11 am – 1:30 pm at Eastdale Mall. This will be the 5th annual giveaway hosted by the Blue Heart Foundation 334.

The Shoppes at EastChase is ending the summer with a BANG at their Summer Nights Back to School Bash on Thursday, August 3rd. From 7 pm – 9 pm, the whole family can enjoy live music, food, kids activities, balloon art, and more. You won’t want to miss this!

Celebrate the first day of school with the Back to School Bash on Saturday, August 5th at 11 am, hosted by K&K Inflatables LLC. Kick off the school year with a splash pad, inflatables, music, and more! This event will be at the Wilson YMCA. Make sure to bring friends and family, and don’t forget to wear something you don’t mind getting wet!

Local Requirements

General public school age requirements allow children who will be 5 years old on or before September 1st to enroll in kindergarten. Children between the ages of 6 and 17 are required to be enrolled in school. A child’s school is determined by the location of their parent’s or legal guardian’s residence. Students must attend the school in the zone they are assigned, with the exception of magnet schools. 

More information on transportation and registration can be found here

Immunization

Some vaccines may be required before sending your kids to school. Each child enrolled in daycare, Head Start, and public or private school in Alabama must have a valid Alabama Certificate of Immunization on file at the facility that they attend. Beat the rush by scheduling an appointment with your pediatrician now! 

Child Nutrition

Remember the food pyramid? Learn how to provide a nutritious meal for your child with MyPlate. A balanced meal can have positive effects on your child throughout their school day. Some schools will even provide free breakfast and lunch to students. See a list of which schools here.