Hillsborough County how to prep for back to school 2025

July… Fun, Fireworks, and Forward Thinking! Time to Prep for Back to School

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Yes, we know you’re still soaking up those long summer days —by the pool, at the beach, or beside BBQs that stretch into the warm evening hours, but guess what?

It is July.

And like it or not, the first day of school is just around the corner — Aug. 11, to be exact.

Don’t let it sneak up on you! We’ve all been there, facing the chaos of Target’s back-to-school section the weekend before classes start. This year, why not take a little pressure off your future self? Here are a few easy ways to start preparing now so you’re feeling refreshed and ready when Aug. 11 rolls around.

How to Prep for Back-to-School

 

✅ Start Your Back-to-School Shopping Now
You don’t have to buy everything at once, but easing into it now will make things feel much more manageable. Many schools have already posted supply lists (check your school’s website), but even if they haven’t, you know you’ll need staples like wide-ruled paper, glue sticks and pencils. Start picking up those essentials or adding them to your Amazon cart.

Pro Tip: Wait to buy the big-ticket items like clothes and backpacks during Florida’s Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday (July 28 – Aug. 10)*. It’s a great opportunity to save.

🕒 Start Talking About Routines
Did something feel off last school year? Mornings too hectic? Homework time a struggle? Now’s the time to talk about small changes that could make a big difference. Sit down with your kids and brainstorm realistic, positive routines that will set everyone up for success.

📋 Create a Checklist
Now that you’ve got a plan, let your kids take some ownership by making their own checklists. Daily responsibilities — both in the morning and after school — can help them stay organized, independent and confident. It’s also a great way to ease the transition back into structure.

📂 Get Organized
Double-check that all school forms and requirements are taken care of. Are immunizations up to date? Will your student need a sports physical? Taking care of this now means fewer headaches later.

🎉 Plan Something Fun
Make the back-to-school season something to look forward to! Consider a weekend getaway or a family beach day shortly after school begins. It gives everyone something exciting to focus on beyond just new schedules and homework.

📅 Don’t Miss the Back-to-School Fair!
Mark your calendars for the Tampa Bay Parenting Back to School Fair, presented by Hillsborough County Public Schools.

📍 WestShore Plaza (yes — indoor, air-conditioned comfort!)
🗓 Saturday, Aug. 2 | 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

This is your one-stop shop to wrap up your back-to-school prep!

Enjoy:

  • FREE backpacks for the first 1,000 students
  • More than 50 vendors, including schools, nonprofits and activity providers
  • Performances, face painting, games and even mascots from local sports teams

Enjoy every minute of summer, but keep an eye on Aug. 11. We’ll see you back in school before you know it!

 

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Originally published in the July 2025 issue of Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine.