The first day of school is right around the corner, and in addition to the usual school supplies and back-to-school shopping, there are several things parents need to get done ahead of their student’s return to the classroom. For students in first through ninth grades, the first day of school is Aug. 19, with all other grades heading back to class Aug. 20. Here’s what parents need to know to get their students ready:

Immunizations

An up-to-date immunization record is required for students to return to school. A couple of changes were made to the immunization requirements for the upcoming school year, so be sure to review the schedule at kdheks.gov to make sure your student is current.

Immunizations can be received at your student’s primary care physician or without an appointment at the Lawrence Douglas County Health Department during clinic hours. Clinic hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays; 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mondays; and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesdays.

If you need a copy of your student’s current immunizations, you can access their records through Skyward Family Access on the USD497.org website or by contacting your school nurse.

Student fees and school meals

Payment of student fees and purchase of school meals can be submitted by mail or online under the Parents & Students tab at USD497.org. Payment plans are available for student fees.

Student fee waivers and free or reduced-price school meals are available to families who meet certain income guidelines. Applications for both programs recently were mailed out, and additional copies are available at the office of each school, or at USD497.org’s food services page. Applications may be submitted at any time during the year, but parents are responsible for charges until their application is approved.

Bus route sign-up

The state of Kansas provides student transportation funding for students living more than 2.5 miles from school. Eligible families can enroll for the student transportation program through First Student, 1548 E. 23rd St. First Student is open 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Forms can also be found online under the Parents & Students tab at USD497.org . The morning bus routes are listed online in the district’s back-to-school newsletter. Questions about student transport can be directed to First Student at 841-3594.

Physical exam

A school health assessment is required for all students nine years old and younger who are entering a Kansas school for the first time. The examination must be completed by a licensed health care provider and dated within 12 months of the student’s first day of school.

Students planning to participate in school athletics also must have an annual physical dated after May 1. Physical forms must be signed by the doctor, student and parent. The doctor’s signature must be dated and include one of the following credentials: MD, DO, DC, PA-C or APRN.

Students can make an appointment with their primary care physician or other clinic. A list of local clinics where students can get a physical exam and/or immunizations is available online at USD497.org.

Fall sports deadline

For high school students, the deadline to sign up for participation in a fall sport is Aug. 14. There are informational meetings at both high schools for parents of students who are interested in trying out for a sport in the upcoming year.

The “All Sports Parent Meeting” for Free State High School is 6 p.m. Aug. 10, with Lawrence High School’s meeting at 7 p.m.

For middle school students, deadlines to sign up for fall sports vary, but most practices and tryouts begin Aug. 17, and forms are due beforehand. Check with your student’s middle school about the deadlines to return forms required for athletic participation.