Indy Standard

The first day of school can often be stressful for families, but taking a few simple steps the weekend before may help alleviate the back-to-school blues. Classes start Thursday, Aug. 1, for more than 30,000 students enrolled in Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS), the largest district in the state, with about 4,000 employees covering around 50 square miles.

Lela Simmons, the district’s Chief Learning Officer, believes that individuals can ease the anxiety associated with the start of a new school year. “For some students, returning to school may feel like heading into the unknown, and it’s normal to feel uncertain when starting a new grade, a new class, or a new school,” Simmons said. “When our students encounter these feelings, I suggest they turn to friends and family to share their emotions. You will find how common these fears really are.”

To get off on the right foot, she urges families to visit their school. IPS is hosting back-to-school nights across the district July 25-31. Families can talk to school leaders and staff and pick up free backpacks, school supplies, clothing, and personal care items. Also, families may learn about resources from local community partners and other giveaways.

Here also are a few tips to start the school year: “We should remember that change can create feelings of discomfort and anxiety,” Simmons said. “These feelings should quickly subside after meeting teachers, seeing friends, and becoming familiar with the environment. We can’t wait to welcome our students back to school!”