August has rolled in signaling the end of summer. The end of staying up late, sleeping in, and diving in the pool on a hot summer’s day. Students have had their first day of school and is now they are back into the swing of things. They’re learning routines, rules, schedules, and how to complete their new grade-level work. For the younger kids, it’s learning how to be in school. For the older kids and even collegiate students, they’re learning a new way of life. August is Back to School month, and here at Kids Hope Alliance, we want to prepare students for being back in the classroom. 

For many 4-year-olds, they entered Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK). This is a free program in Florida for children born before September 1st. VPK prepares students for kindergarten. Teachers follow a curriculum that focuses on early literacy skills. There are several options around Duval County that offers this program, and there’s even an organization called the Early Learning Coalition that will assist low-income families with paying for childcare.  

Older students have a different hurdle to master. Whether it is figuring out where they many classes are, navigating different personalities with their new friends, or embracing a new world of independence, there is a lot of changes they have to overcome. For teens, there are many groups and organizations that they can join where leaders will pour into them and encourage them to do their best. Some of these organizations can be found on our website. For our first-time college students or seasoned ones, there are groups and counselors who are available to help you. Just contact them at either one of our local college campuses: Florida State College at Jacksonville, Jacksonville University, Edward Waters University, or University of North Florida. 

And parents, we haven’t forgotten about you. Back to school isn’t just about the kids; it also affects you too. There’s back to school shopping, implementing bedtimes, and helping your kids with their homework. It can be overwhelming, but if you plan it out, things can still go smoothly. There are some things that you should know for this upcoming school year: 

• Truancy- Florida state statutes require that all students must attend school regularly. Students who miss more than five days in a calendar month or 10 days in a 90-day period are considered truant. Students and parents can face consequences if the child or children does not attend school. Showing up at school allows the child to receive all important information regarding their schoolwork. They also will perform better in school and have a better chance of graduating. Let’s all work together to ensure your child show up to school so they can learn and excel.
• Safe driving- The speed limits around schools are lowered to ensure the safety of our students walking to school. Sadly, at least three students were hit by cars during the first week of school, one of which has died. The county, as well as the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, urges everyone to pay attention and to slow down while they are driving, especially near school zones. Superintendent Christopher Bernier launched a campaign last year called, “Be Safe. Be Seen.” It’s an initiative to make the streets safer for our students. So, when you are driving or taking your kids to school, be mindful of pedestrians and those who are riding their bicycles. Look twice before turning, slow down, and do not speed near schools.
• On a lighter note, your child’s school would LOVE for you to volunteer and be a part of your child’s school experience. All volunteers must have a background screening, especially if you plan on accompanying your child on field trips. 

The goal is to make transitioning back to school a smooth one. With the knowledge and preparation, students should be ready for success.  

By Texsena Scott