It is already August which means it is time to start preparing for back to school.  Here are some tips, links and dates that are important for getting your kids ready for the new school year.

Dates and Details

Culver City Public Schools open on the 17^th of August.

Culver City has 8 schools:

• El Marino Language School
• El Rincon Elementary School – this is the closest elementary school to Parkway Plaza Apartments.
• La Ballona Elementary School
• Farragut Elementary School
• Linwood E. Howe Elementary School
• Culver City Middle School
• Culver City High School
• Culver Park High School

Back to School Tips

• Ease into the routine – you and your kids probably have been staying up and getting up later than you do in the school year. Practice your routine a few days in advance. Set the alarm clock, go through your morning rituals, and get in the car or to the bus stop at the same time that you will when school starts.
• Kick Start the Brain – fun days at the pool  or lounging in the apartment are all part of a summer day’s activities, but it is time to kick start the brain to get ready for the new school year. Start by encouraging your child to read, do a cross word puzzle or word search.  If your child likes math, do math problems with them, flash cards, multiplication or children’s Sudoku.   All of these will help prepare your child for the upcoming school year.
• Set a Place for Studying – even kindergartners have homework, so having a place that is dedicated to this task is important. Set up an area that is ONLY for homework; buy a small table, put up a cork board and calendar.  Have a place for assignments, to do and completed.  Set up this area with the kids so that they can be involved and get excited about the new school year.
• Talk About the School Year – the school year means a change in schedule (not just sleep habits) be sure to discuss the schedule ahead of time. Go over times and places.  If your child will be walking to school, walk with him/her a few times before school starts.  If your child is going to take a bus, walk them to the bus stop and explain bus pick up and drop off times.
• Tool Up for School – Most teachers will provide you with a list of supplies that your child will need for school, but being prepared ahead of time will make the first day easier and help to avoid the long lines at school supply stores once school starts.
• Safety First – It is important that your child (no matter what age) has emergency phone numbers and has reviewed some basic safety tips. Important numbers for them to have are: parents, grandparents, neighbors, apartment office #, school # and police.  Younger children should be reminded of their address and “stranger” rules.
• Back to School Clothing – Be sure to check the school district’s dress code before purchasing back to school clothing. Another tip is to wait a week or two so your kids can get a sense of their new fashion style and to take advantage of sales.
• New to Area – If you are new to the area, be sure to register ahead of time. Visit the school closest to your Culver City apartment with your child and arrange to meet their new teacher.

Following these tips will make the new school year less hectic.