By Shellie Miller-Farrugia
It’s that time again, Broward County! Summer is winding down, stores are overflowing with pencil cases and brightly colored backpacks, and parents are bracing for the annual calendar overhaul. The first day of school for the 2025-26 year is Monday, August 11th, so if you haven’t yet restocked the lunchbox supplies or located your child’s left shoe (the one that mysteriously vanished in June), now’s the time to get on it.
Here in Coral Springs and Parkland, we’re fortunate to have a fantastic mix of quality public and private schools—places where caring teachers and staff are excited to welcome kids back for a fresh start. Whether you’ve got a little one heading off to kindergarten or a teen navigating high school hallways, there’s comfort in knowing our community’s schools are ready to guide them through every step of the way. For parents just starting out, it can definitely feel a little daunting—there’s nothing like that first “meet the teacher” night to make you wonder if you’re the one who’s supposed to be going back to school. But take a deep breath, because everyone gets the hang of it faster than you’d think.
Of course, the days leading up to the first bell come with their own kind of magic. Kids are practically buzzing with excitement, carefully selecting their first-day outfits, sharpening pencils, and mentally preparing their “what I did this summer” speeches. And while parents might be secretly longing for the lazy mornings of summer, there’s something really special about the fresh start of a new school year.
A friendly reminder for everyone hitting the roads in August: school zones will be back in full effect. Those flashing lights aren’t just for show—so please, take it easy behind the wheel and keep an eye out for little pedestrians and crossing guards. Coral Springs and Parkland’s finest will be out in full force, helping to keep things safe and orderly during the morning and afternoon rush.
If you’re feeling a little uneasy about diving back into the world of early alarms, packed lunches, and homework folders, you’re not alone. The first week can feel like a whirlwind, but it’s amazing how quickly the routine returns. Before long, you’ll be back in the swing of things, probably wondering how summer ever felt long in the first place. Here’s to a great school year ahead—ready or not!