Welcome Back to School graphic featuring the words “Welcome Back to School” in large blue lettering on a light blue grid background. School-themed illustrations include a globe, pencils, rulers, notebook, backpack with the OCSD logo, open book, crayons, paper clips, and a rocket ship. The design uses soft pastel colors and classroom supplies to create a cheerful back-to-school theme.

School Begins Tuesday, August 11, 2026!

A new school year is full of opportunities, and a little preparation can help set students up for success from day one. Whether you're sending a child to school for the first time or preparing for another exciting year, these simple tips can help make the transition smooth for the entire family.

Plan Ahead for the First Day

The first day of school can be both exciting and stressful. Help your student start strong by:

  • Establish

    a consistent bedtime and morning routine before school begins.

  • Laying out clothes, backpacks, and supplies the night before.

  • Revi

    ewing your child's class schedule and teacher information.

  • Discussing expectations and goals for the new school year.

  • Arriving at school early to allow extra time for traffic, parking, and locating classrooms.

Know Important Dates and School Start Times

Be sure to review the district and school calendars for important dates, holidays, early release days, and testing windows throughout the year.

View 2026 -2027 School Calendars

View School Start Times
School start times indicate when learning begins. To help your student start the day successfully, plan to arrive on campus with enough time for drop-off and getting to class before the bell rings.

Stay Connected with Focus Parent Portal

The Focus Parent Portal is one of the most important tools families will use throughout the school year. Parents and guardians should create or verify their Parent Portal account before school begins.

You'll need access to the Parent Portal to complete required annual forms, including:

Keep Your Contact Information Up to Date

Accurate contact information helps ensure you receive important communications from your child's school and the district.

Please make sure:

  • Your phone numbers are current.

  • Your email addresses are up to date.

  • Each guardian has a unique cell phone number and unique email address on file.

Having separate contact information for each guardian helps ensure everyone receives important district and school updates, emergency notifications, event reminders, and classroom communications.

Meet Rooms: A New Way to Stay Connected

We're excited to introduce Rooms, a new communication platform designed to strengthen connections between families, teachers, and schools.

With Rooms, families can:

  • Receive classroom updates and announcements.

  • Communicate directly with teachers.

  • Stay informed about assignments, events, and important reminders.

  • Access conversations in one convenient location.

More information about Rooms, including setup instructions and helpful resources, will be shared with families as the school year begins.

Apply for Free or Reduced Meals

Families are encouraged to complete the Free and Reduced-Price Meal Application each school year. Eligibility is based on household size and income and may provide access to additional benefits and programs beyond school meals.

Submitting an application is quick, secure, and confidential. Even if your child does not eat school meals regularly, qualifying for meal assistance can help support important resources for schools and students.

Families who were approved for Free or Reduced Meals last school year must re-apply this school year.

Apply for Free or Reduced Meals

Check Transportation Information

If your child rides the bus, be sure to:

Families should allow extra time during the first two weeks of school as routes and traffic patterns settle into place.

View Transportation Information

Make Attendance a Priority

Good attendance is one of the strongest indicators of student success. Establish routines that help students arrive at school on time each day and ready to learn.

Here's to a Great School Year!

The first day of school marks the beginning of new friendships, exciting learning opportunities, and memorable experiences. By planning ahead, staying connected through Focus and Rooms, and ensuring your information is current, you'll help your child start the year confident, prepared, and ready to succeed.

We look forward to welcoming all students back for an outstanding school year!