It’s that time of year again! Backpacks are beginning to peek out from closets, supply lists are popping up on the fridge, and Phoenix is buzzing with the energy of another school year. Pull up a chair and sip something cold (you’ve earned it, this is Phoenix after all) as we chat all things back-to-school. Whether you’ve got a kindergartener or a seasoned senior, the Valley of the Sun has your squad covered for a smooth transition from pool floats to pencil cases.
When’s the First Bell? Phoenix’s Patchwork Calendar
Let’s address the big, sun-drenched calendar in the room. School isn’t one-size-fits-all in Maricopa County. Start dates range from July 16 to August 7, depending on the district. Some lucky scholars are back before monsoon season, while others have a few more weeks to perfect their “first day of school” ensemble.
To help you out, here’s a glance at a few big ones:
-
Chandler Unified School District: July 16
-
Higley Unified School District: July 17
-
Kyrene and Tempe Districts: July 23
-
Gilbert Unified School District: July 22
-
Deer Valley, Mesa, Peoria, Scottsdale & more: July 31 / August 4
-
Buckeye Elementary, Buckeye Union High, Arlington Elementary: August 6
-
Saddle Mountain Unified: August 7
Not sure where your school falls? Many districts have their full calendars online, so double-check before planning that last-minute staycation.
Supplies Surprise! Where to Shop in Phoenix
Nothing signals the start of the school year quite like the great supply stock-up. Markers, folders, graphing calculators, lunchboxes that scream “style” and “leftovers.” Lucky for us, Phoenix boasts plenty of well-stocked supply hot spots.
Check out these tried-and-true favorites:
Staples
Paradise Valley Plaza
1202 E Thunderbird Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85022
Office Depot
2005 E Camelback Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85016
Target
4515 E Thomas Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85018
Arizona School Supplies
1111 E Indian School Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85014
Desert Schools Supplies Plus
7815 N Black Canyon Hwy, Phoenix, AZ 85021
For families looking for eco-friendly choices, some of these spots (especially Target and Office Depot) have dedicated sections for recycled paper, plant-based binders, and reusable lunchware.
Squeeze the Last Drops of Summer: Local Back-to-School Events
Who says back-to-school can’t kick off with a party? All around Phoenix, local businesses and community centers throw fun fairs, games, and giveaways. Watch for district newsletters and your local Facebook groups—many events offer free backpacks, discounted supplies, and even immunization clinics to help your kids stay healthy from day one.
Bonus tips:
-
Some Phoenix libraries host “reading challenges” with prizes for kids who tackle summer reading lists
-
Several high schools put on “freshman orientation days” with free snacks and icebreaker games
-
Check your local mall’s event calendar—back-to-school craft sessions and sidewalk sales abound
Prep Like a Pro: Five Smart Tips for Starting Strong
Let’s be real, back-to-school prep is about more than new sneakers and lunchboxes with dinosaurs on them (though, those help). Steal these sanity-saving tips to help your student (and you) make the most of the new year.
1. Reset the Sleep Schedule
Yes, even in Phoenix, summer sleep-ins can be hard to give up. Begin nudging bedtime earlier about a week before school starts so those early mornings are less of a shock.
2. Get That Paperwork Done
From registration forms to immunization records, now’s the time to check what your district needs. Many now offer online forms—less time in line, more time at the splash pad.
3. Lunchbox Game Plan
Hot lunch, cold lunch, pizza Fridays? Whatever your style, get a plan going. Prepping lunches the night before cuts down on morning chaos, and Phoenix’s many supermarkets offer yummy, healthy grab-and-go options.
4. Have “The Talk”… About Routines
No, not that talk. We mean practicing pick-up spots, where to stash homework, and what time those devices get powered down. The earlier everyone’s on the same page, the smoother those first days will go.
5. Involve the Kids
Shopping, labeling, organizing—kids are (usually) more excited to use supplies they picked out or organized. Plus, it turns a boring chore into a mini adventure.
The Spirit of School: Don’t Forget the Fun
Back-to-school isn’t just about lists, dates, and forms. It’s the perfect moment to snap a first-day photo, write a little note for a lunchbox, or plan a pancake breakfast to start the year off right.
Phoenix parents, you’ve got this. With these tips and a pinch of Arizona spirit, you’ll be ready to welcome the new school year with style—and maybe even a little less stress. Happy prepping!
Sources: intervaledu.com, google.com, azcentral.com
Header Image Source: pxu.org
