With the first day of school in early August, we know parents are starting to think about supplies, uniforms, new shoes, new teachers, and all the other things that go along with the start of a new school year.
We’ve got a handy dandy list of all the things you need to know for the upcoming school year in Polk County, Florida.
Table of Contents
When is the first day of school in Polk County?
Students return to school on Monday, August 12, 2024. Click here to see the full 2024 – 2025 School Calendar and contact your school directly to get dates for orientation.
Charter schools (such as McKeel and some Montessori schools) and Private Schools all have their own calendars, and many start prior to August 12. Visit the link below or check directly with your school for those calendars.
Polk County School Calendar for 2024 – 2025
Polk County Schools Calendar for 2024-2025: Public, Private, + Charter Schools
The Polk County School Calendar for the 2024-25 school year has been approved. Get dates for the first day of school, last day of school, Christmas Break, Spring Break, and more.
Helpful Polk County School Information
Links for Polk County Public Schools:
- Polk County Public Schools Website
- PCPS Zone Finder – find your zoned school
- How to Enroll in Polk County Public Schools {new students only}
- List of Polk County Schools – helpful to find your school’s contact info
- School Supply Lists – check your school’s website or social media page
- Bus Information – check with your school
- Polk County Schools Parent Portal
- Jobs at Polk County Public Schools
- Polk Virtual School
For Private and Charter schools, check your school’s website for information.
Free School Supplies and Back-To-School Bashes
Back-To-School Bashes and Free School Supplies in Lakeland + Polk County
In need of free school supplies? Or just looking to celebrate the new school year with a back to school bash? We’ve got a full list of back to school events and places to get free school supplies.
Florida Back-to-School Sales Tax Week – July 29 – August 11, 2024
The 2024 Back to School Tax Free Week in Florida is July 29 – August 11, 2024. It is a full 2 weeks this year.
Florida Back-to-School Sales Tax Weeks: July 29 – August 11, 2024
The Florida Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday is July 29 – August 11, 2024 and we’ve got all the details you need to know to save money on your back to school shopping! Save on clothing, shoes, uniforms, school supplies, computers, and more.
After School Programs
Guide to After School Programs in Lakeland + Polk County
Find after school care where your kids will be engaged, have fun, and receive homework help during the afternoon hours. All of the after school programs on our list provide school pick up.
School Supply Drives and Donation Locations
Looking for a way to help other children and families in our community? Head over to our list of Free School Supply Events to also see a list of local supply drives where you can donate supplies and make a difference in a child’s life.
Even if you are already stretching a dollar to buy supplies for your own family, there are still ways to donate without breaking the bank – buy items you need during BOGO sales at Publix and donate the extra set, or check out the 1 penny deals at Staples and Office Depot.
Guide to Polk County Schools
Polk County Schools: Research Your School Options – Magnet, Charter, IB, Academies, Performing Arts & More {plus 2024 Open Enrollment Dates}
Explore School Choice Options in Lakeland and Polk County. Get details on Magnet, Charter, IB, Academies, Performing Arts, & more, and find out when to apply.
Recent Education Articles
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Education Guide
Check out our Education Guide for Lakeland + Polk County for other education topics including public schools, private schools, homeschooling, tutoring + test prep, school calendars, colleges, and more.