Benicia Unified School District

Summer vacation is winding down and if you're like most parents, you're eyeing back-to-school sales and trying to get your student ready for the first day of the new school year (August 18th).

Here is a list of reminders to start the school year:

• Routine - Don't wait until the night before the first day of school to change your student's bedtime. Give them a few weeks to adjust to the school schedule.

• Registration/Back-to-School Fairs - These are important opportunies to visit your students school site and update your student's emergency information and gather important information about the upcoming year. Dates are posted on this website.

• Immunizations - Check with your pediatrician to make sure your children have all the recommended vaccinations. Not being current may prevent your student from attending school.

• Health Issues - Inform the school ahead of time if your student has allergies or conditions such as diabetes. Be sure to have your physician fill out the medicines form for any medications that will be taken at school and submit the form and medicines to the site as soon as possible.

• Backpacks - Show younger students how to use a backpack to avoid strain and injury. Remind older ones about overloading their packs. A backpack should not weigh more than 10-20% of a student's weight.

• Transportation - Encourage older students to walk or bike to school. Students need more physical activity and it is better for the environment. Establish walking/biking buddies or groups.