Back to school can be an exciting time of year, even though it means the summer months are coming to an end. Regardless of how you feel about getting back into the school year, it’s important to stay on top of what you need to do each summer before the next year of high school begins. We’ve put together the ultimate back-to-school checklist for high school students so you can walk into the next grade with ease. Let’s get started!
Back to School Checklist:
1. Health Checkups & Required Health Forms
We’re starting with the least fun of all, but also what is considered one of the most important things to remember as you prepare to go back to school—health checkups. Check-in with your school to see what health checkups and health forms are required for this school year.
Schedule a visit to your healthcare provider for any required vaccinations, physical exams, and other health checkups. Make sure your immunization records are up to date and have all required medical forms completed and ready to submit to the school’s office. Also, note that participation in sports may require additional checkups or forms.
2. Back to School Supplies
A well-prepared student is a successful student. Sorting out your back-to-school supplies is a crucial step in setting yourself up for academic success. However, it can be overwhelming if you haven’t opened your backpack since last school year. Here’s how we recommend choosing your back-to-school supplies.
Audit Current Supplies
Start by going through your existing supplies from the previous school year. What can be reused? What needs to be replaced? Take inventory of items like pens, pencils, notebooks, binders, and any other tools you know you’ll probably need again for your classes.
Backpack
Investing in a sturdy and comfortable backpack is essential. Look for one with multiple compartments to help with your books, notebooks, laptop, and other essentials. Our pro suggestion: try to pick out a color that is neutral for you! Chances are, your tastes will change throughout high school, and if you are using the same backpack year after year, you’ll want one that’s considered classic versus trendy.
Supply Shopping
Once you’ve audited your current supplies and assessed what else you need to get, it’s time for the exciting part—supply shopping! Make a list of items required for each class, including textbooks, notebooks, folders, and any specific supplies mentioned by your teachers. Take advantage of back-to-school sales at your local stores to save a little money on your purchases. Here’s another pro tip for you: start early! School supplies can quickly be picked over so the earlier you go, the better off you’ll be at finding everything you need.
3. Back-to-School Clothing
Looking your best can give you the confidence boost you need to start the school year off right. Take a look at your current wardrobe and try on everything to see what still fits, what’s no longer in style, and what needs to be replaced. Make a list of essential items like jeans, t-shirts, sweaters, and gym clothes. Double-check with the school dress code to know what you can and cannot wear to school. If your school requires a uniform, go through old uniform pieces to see if any pieces need to be replaced due to wear and tear.
While you want to look stylish, comfort and temperature should be a priority. Choose clothing that allows you to move freely and feel at ease throughout the day. Does your school have AC? If not, maybe consider clothing that is breathable and won’t get too hot. Is your school very cold in the winter? Plan to have articles of clothing you can use as layers to store in your locker or backpack.
4. Plan for the Year
As you gear up for the school year, it’s great to set some goals and plan for what you want to achieve academically and personally. Here’s how we suggest you approach your planning.
Academic Goals
Set clear and achievable academic goals for the year. Whether it’s maintaining a certain GPA, improving in a specific subject, or participating in a particular extracurricular activity, having goals can provide direction and motivation throughout the year.
Time Management
With classes, homework, extracurricular activities, and possibly a part-time job, time management is very important. Do you use a calendar or planner? If not, now is a great time to start! Digital calendars like Google Calendar or Apple Calendar are great tools to organize your schedule and ensure you allocate enough time to studying, relaxing, and having fun!
Review the school year calendar and make note of important dates, such as days off, holidays, events, due dates, and other special days. Add these dates to your digital or physical calendar ahead of time so you always know what’s coming up next.
Extracurricular Activities
High school is not just about academics; it’s also a time to explore your interests and passions! Plan which clubs, sports, or other activities you want to participate in during the school year. And don’t be afraid to try something new! High school is a perfect time to explore, make new friends, and join in on new activities. Your involvement can add to your high school experience, help you develop new skills, and become impressive additions to college applications.
Transitioning from summer to school is never easy, but using this checklist and having a well-thought-out back-to-school plan does make it easier. Taking care of your health, gathering necessary supplies, planning your wardrobe, and setting goals will set you on the right path for a successful and fulfilling school year.
And, of course, when you’re ready to start exploring your options at the collegiate level, you know where to go: College Raptor! Use our College Match Tool to get the best college matches based on your GPA, major, location, test scores, and desired culture.
For now, focus on having an amazing school year ahead!
