*This countdown is for grades 1-12.
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The countdown to a new school year is underway. We are buzzing with excitement! As we pack away our summer gear, it’s time to get ready for the year ahead. Getting back into the school routine requires preparation. Here is a Back-to-School Checklist to help you start the year with confidence.
1. REVIEW THE SCHOOL CALENDAR
The first day of school is Wednesday, September 4 for students in grades 1-12. Kindergarten students start on Monday, September 9. The first day for preschool students is Wednesday, September 11. See other important dates.
2. VIEW YOUR SCHOOL SUPPLY LIST
Get ahead by reviewing the school supply list provided by your school on their website. This ensures your child has everything they need from day one, setting them up for success throughout the school year.
Access to free school supplies is available for families thanks to the Highline Schools Foundation. If your family would like to receive school supplies, please reach out to your school office directly for further details.
3. ACTIVATE PARENTSQUARE & PARENTVUE
ParentSquare
Receive communication from your student’s teacher, school and district office. Download the ParentSquare app and activate your account to begin communicating. Use your account settings to select your preferred language and turn on text message notifications.
ParentVUE
Activate your ParentVUE account to track how your student is doing in school. You can view your child’s assignments, grades and attendance.
4. CONFIRM YOUR STUDENT’S CONTACT INFORMATION
Each year, families are required to verify student emergency and health information. Verifying your information ensures we have a correct home address, phone number, emergency contact and health information on file.
Verifying your contact information is essential for schools to notify you quickly and keep your student safe. Please complete this process before school starts.
5. CHECK OUT SCHOOL MENUS
School meals are available to all students at no cost this year! Our menus, carefully crafted by a dietitian, showcase freshly baked goods and scratch-made entrees such as spaghetti, chicken pozole, and chicken chili. We prioritize local Washington produce, whole grains, and low-fat dairy in every meal. Explore our weekly menus to see what's cooking!
6. FIND YOUR BUS ROUTE
Find your bus stop and pick-up/drop-off times on the week of August 19 using our online tool. Please check back just before the first day of school. Minor adjustments to routes could be made before school starts.
7. KNOW YOUR RIGHTS & RESPONSIBILITIES AND REVIEW OFFICIAL NOTICES
Review the Student Rights and Responsibilities handbook and our Official Notices so you and your student know school expectations and what you can expect from your school. This includes:
- Attendance policy
- Photo and video release
- Protecting your student’s information
- Special education
- Health service information
- Discipline policy
- Other important information
8. PRACTICE GETTING UP ON TIME
Prepare for school by setting the alarm and waking the family up on time. Studies link good attendance with better academic results. Missing just two days a month can set a student back and make school harder for students. Attending school regularly helps children feel better about school—and themselves. Learn more about why attendance matters.
9. USE #BACKTOHIGHLINE ON SOCIALS
Share photos of your student getting ready for the school year and the first day of school using the hashtag #BackToHighline. Stay in the loop with all the exciting school highlights and essential updates this school year by following Highline on Facebook and Instagram.
Let's make this year one to remember!