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backtoschool

Back To School

Mayor Bowser's 2026-2027 Back to School Checklist

A new school year starts with a few key steps. This checklist makes sure your student is prepared and ready to learn on day one.

Back to school checklist promotional graphic with photos of students

Find Mayor Bowser’s 2026-2027 Checklist in English and Spanish.

The checklist is organized into four “to-do” lists that guide families through the most important back-to-school tasks:   

  • Enrollment: information on enrolling at an in-boundary DCPS school, applying to public charter and out-of-boundary or citywide DCPS schools through the My School DC lottery, and resources for early childhood, special education, career and technical education, child care and out-of-school-time programs.
  • Health Records and Immunizations: required forms, annual medical and dental visits and DC’s immunization requirements.
  • Getting To and From School: information about Kids Ride Free, Safe Passage and specialized transportation services. 
  • Attendance: tips for strong attendance habits, understanding District attendance requirements and connecting families with support services if challenges arise. 

Families are encouraged to pick up a printed copy at your local DC Public Library (DCPL) branch or Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) center while supplies last!