It’s back-to-school season! Here’s advice for your kids from SLO County educators
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- SLO County educators stress bedtime and routine-setting before school starts.
- Parents can boost confidence by discussing feelings and setting school-year goals.
- Administrators encourage students to get involved in school activities.
The smell of fresh pencils and hand sanitizer will soon fill the air as San Luis Obispo County students start their return to school.
Most schools across the county are set to open back up between Wednesday and Aug. 21.
While back-to-school season can be an exciting rush, it can also cause stress and tension as kids dive back into learning, teachers race to prepare their classrooms and parents try to claw together the last-minute details.
The Tribune reached out to local school districts asking for back-to-school advice to publish as part of our Parents Central series. We received responses from 19 educators and administrators across the county.
Here’s what they had to say.
Give your kids a routine
While The Tribune received a diverse range of responses, there was one thing the majority of respondents agreed upon — the importance of consistent routines.
At least 11 educators responded to The Tribune’s poll encouraging parents to establish bedtimes, wake-up times, mealtimes and homework schedules for their kids before the start of school. Doing so will help students put their best foot forward on the first day, the educators agreed.
Tom Bennett, the new superintendent for the Atascadero Unified School District, recommended setting bedtime and wake-up routines as early as possible.
“It’s also helpful to reintroduce reading and learning activities, especially if those habits slowed down over the summer,” he added.
Whitney Whitney, a principal in the Lucia Mar Unified School District, also emphasized the value of routines.
“Starting school is an exciting milestone, and we’re committed to making it a smooth and positive experience for both students and families,” she wrote. “One helpful tip is to begin practicing a consistent bedtime and morning routine about a week before school starts. Using visuals or timers can make the process fun and engaging, helping your child feel confident and ready for the big day!”
Similarly, Arroyo Grande High School Principal Brad Grumbles said establishing consistent bedtimes, healthy meals and limits on screen time can make a big difference for kids as they start school.
Lucia Mar education specialist Loni Doan pointed out that routines can help not only students, but parents too.
“Help students readjust to school-ready sleep schedules in the week or so prior to the first day of school,” she wrote. “This will help your student be physically and emotionally ready for the start of the next learning season, and will probably make the morning routine easier for you, too.”
Talk with kids about their feelings and goals
Starting school can be scary for students, especially if they’re starting at a new campus or have had negative experiences in the past — so local educators said it’s important for parents to know how their kids are feeling.
Several respondents encouraged parents to talk with their kids about any nerves, excitement or worries before their first day. Others added that encouraging positivity can make a big difference.
Holly Moore, a principal in the Paso Robles Joint Unified School District, emphasized both in her response.
“Talk about what to expect in the new year to ease any worries,” Moore wrote. “Encourage independence by having them pack their backpack and manage homework time. Create a quiet study space at home to support focus. Stay positive and remind your child that challenges help them grow.”
Clark Goossen, principal in the San Luis Coastal Unified School District, concurred.
“Students also benefit from positive conversations about the start of a new school year,” Goossen wrote. “Ask them about what they look forward to learning and the friends they are eager to see again. Discuss the many caring educators who are excited to help them learn and thrive at school. Remind them that it’s normal to have some butterflies when experiencing change and growth.”
Elementary principal Chelsey Smiley added her own perspective as a parent.
“As parents, we truly set the tone for how our children approach new beginnings,” Smiley wrote. “When we show a positive attitude about school and express our trust in the teachers and staff, our kids pick up on that. They feel more confident knowing we believe in the journey ahead.”
James McMillen, also a principal in the San Luis Coastal district, encouraged parents to work on goal setting with their kids.
“Outwardly express nothing but positivity when you find out which teacher your child will have,” McMillen wrote. “Your enthusiasm is contagious, and your child will walk into their classroom with a great mindset to start the year. Also, ask your child what they hope to learn about this year, and set some short and long term goals with them. Don’t forget to monitor your progress towards the goals, and celebrate with your child along the road to reaching their goals!”
Lucia Mar principal Keith Gledhill said the conversations that happen at home are the building blocks for the new year.
“As students head back to school this August, remember it is not about having the trendiest clothes or the newest electronics. What matters most is the support and encouragement they receive at home,” he wrote. “A child who feels seen, valued and uplifted by their family walks into school with confidence. Set routines, talk about their goals, and remind them you believe in them. Your support is the strongest foundation they can have for a successful year.”
Get involved and connect with friends!
SLO County educators advised students to get involved starting from the first day of school.
“One of the best things about starting a new school year is the chance to start fresh,” Atascadero superintendent Tom Bennett wrote to SLO County students. “It’s a great time to think about what you want to accomplish and set some personal goals. Whether it’s joining a new club, trying out a sport, making new friends, or aiming for academic growth, this is your opportunity to challenge yourself and grow in new ways.”
San Luis Coastal superintendent Eric Prater wrote that he was most excited for all the opportunities the new school year would offer, including clubs, sports, music, theater, arts and robotics.
He had a simple message for students: “Be kind. Get involved. Be curious. Stretch yourself.”
Lucia Mar education specialist Loni Doan also encouraged kids to enter the new year with a positive outlook and an open mind.
“Be excited for social connections — make new friends, join clubs, sports, or activities, and see how that impacts your feelings about school — and also be open to the learning opportunities,” she wrote.
Educators also emphasized the value of positive friendships for students. Some said connecting with classmates ahead of the first day can thaw the ice and make the start of school a little easier.
Joshua Herrera, principal at Oceano Elementary, wrote some advice for parents: “Help your child brainstorm ways to reconnect with friends or make new ones. Help them to understand ways to make others feel welcomed and connected to school.”
For students, he encouraged kindness and inclusion.
“School is a great place to not only learn, but a place to make new friends,” he said. “Push yourself to be kind to others and include everyone.”
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