Ready for Takeoff: Your Essential Back-to-School Prep Guide for Van Buren County Students
As a brand-new school year takes flight for students across Van Buren County, we’re here with a fresh guide to help families feel prepared, confident, and supported. From tech tips to wellness strategies, here’s everything you need to start the year strong.
Listen to our Deep Dive Podcast:
1. Get Organized Before Day One
Build a smart system:
Create a dedicated “Back-to-School” folder—either in a school planner or a notes app. Use it to keep track of schedules, teacher contacts, important websites (like your local school’s page, Facebook updates, sports information, and VBISD portals), and other resources.
Tech tip:
-
Sync school calendars to your device with holidays, early dismissals, and conference dates.
-
Use reminder apps to set alerts for assignment deadlines, projects, and after-school pickups.
2. Tech Readiness — Smooth Digital Start
Check the essentials:
If your school uses 1:1 devices or e-learning, be sure your student’s Chromebook or tablet is updated, charged, and protected with a sturdy case.
Access matters:
Make sure logins for systems like PowerSchool are working. Many schools give parents access to grades, attendance, and behavior updates. Bookmark these sites and test passwords now to avoid first-day hiccups.
3. Transportation & Safety — Plan the Journey
Know the route:
Do a practice run—whether your student rides the bus, walks, bikes, or car-pools. Take note of pickup points, safe walking paths, and traffic patterns.
Bus tips:
Van Buren County deeply appreciates its bus drivers, who prioritize safety every day. Families are asked to be patient during the first week as buses adjust to new routes and schedules.
4. Mental & Emotional Wellness — A Balanced Start
Take brain breaks:
Encourage short pauses during study time—quick stretches, doodles, or a walk can refresh focus.
Normalize feelings:
Talk with your student about first-day nerves or excitement. Open conversations can help ease transitions and build resilience.
Inspiration at home:
VBISD’s new Story Stroll invites families to enjoy reading while moving outdoors—an idea you can easily recreate in your own neighborhood.
5. Nutrition & Energy — Fuel for Learning
Pack smart snacks:
Keep options like apple slices with nut butter, cheese and crackers, or veggies with hummus on hand to sustain concentration.
Stay hydrated:
Send students with a refillable water bottle. Hydration boosts focus and energy throughout the school day.
6. Parent-Teacher Partnerships — Start Strong
Reach out early:
Introduce yourself to your child’s teachers via email or a quick meeting. Share learning preferences, strengths, or areas where extra support may help.
Stay connected:
Follow your school’s newsletters and social media feeds to stay informed about schedule changes, events, and announcements.
7. Community Connections — Growing Together
VBISD programs:
VBISD supports families with services ranging from Early Childhood and Special Education to Migrant/Multilingual programs and Career & Technical Education. Learn more at vbisd.org.
Engage locally:
Attend school events, resource fairs, or library programs to build connections and a sense of belonging right from the start.
Final Thoughts
The start of school is more than a date on the calendar—it’s a chance for fresh routines, new friendships, and exciting growth. With the right tools and support, Van Buren County families can look forward to a school year filled with success and opportunity.
Here’s to a fantastic year ahead!
