Back-to-School Success

Posted Date: 08/04/26 (10:00 AM)

Good morning, Paso Schools Families,

Paso Robles Joint Unified School District is excited to welcome all of our students and families to the start of the new school year on August 13th!

The start of a new school year can be exciting, but it can also bring some uncertainty—especially for children who are starting school for the first time or transitioning to a new campus.

A little preparation can help children feel more confident, comfortable, and ready for the first day. Continue reading for tips, and links to digital resources to support your student as they enter the new school year.

Set Up Routines for Success

Consistent Bedtime: Ensure children get enough sleep by setting a regular bedtime. Ease them out of late summer nights by gradually moving up their bedtime routine to help them prepare for the first day of school.
Morning Preparation: Organize clothes, backpacks, and lunch the night before to streamline mornings.
Healthy Breakfast: Provide a nutritious breakfast to boost focus and energy.
Set a Wake-Up Time: To help create calm mornings, wake children early enough to avoid rushing.
Daily Check-In: Spend a few minutes each morning discussing the day ahead, including drop-off and pick-up times and locations, to reduce anxiety and build connection.
Limit Screen Time: Reduce electronic distractions before school to promote readiness.

Preparing for School

Arrange playdates with one or more familiar peers before school starts. Research shows that the presence of a familiar peer during school transitions can improve children’s academic and emotional adjustment.
Visit the school: rehearse drop-off, and spend time on the playground and inside the classroom during Meet Your Teacher Night on August 12. Have your child practice walking into class while you wait outside, or at your drop-off location.
Come up with a prize or rewarding activity your child could earn for separating from you to attend school.
Validate their concerns by acknowledging that, like any new activity, starting school can be hard but soon becomes easy and fun.
Encourage a positive attitude by reinforcing the value of learning and going to school.

Webinar

For kids, school can bring excitement, learning, and connection. It can also bring big feelings like fear, worry, sadness, or overwhelm that sometimes make attendance difficult. Join the BrightLife Kids team to learn more about the factors that can make getting to school hard and how trusted adults can support children in building confidence and reconnecting with school.

Resources

Quick Links

Breakfast & Lunch Menus

26-27 Academic Calendar

Aeries Parent Portal

2026 Calendar of Regular Board Meetings

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