This guide is sponsored by Newton Community Partnership!
š Back-to-School Guide for Dekalb, Rockdale, and Newton Counties
Last updated: July 15, 2025
The smell of fresh pencils, new backpacks, and the faint panic of realizing you forgot the school supply list—yep, it’s back-to-school season! Whether you’re a seasoned school parent or sending your first kiddo off with a tearful wave, this guide has everything you need to tackle the new school year in Dekalb, Rockdale, and Newton Counties.
From school start dates to where to score free supplies, we've got your back. And for our Newton County families, keep reading for some fantastic resources and programs from Newton Community Partnership to help your school year start off strong!
šļø Start Dates & Calendars
- Dekalb County Schools: August 4, 2025 — View Calendar
- Rockdale County Schools: August 4, 2025 — View Calendar
- Newton County Schools: August 4, 2025 — View Calendar
- Looking for School Open Houses? Check them out HERE!
š School Supply Lists
Avoid last-minute Walmart runs (or at least try). Find your school’s supply lists here:
- Dekalb County Schools - check your individual school
- Rockdale County Schools
- Newton County Schools - check your individual school
šø Free or Discounted School Supplies & Services
Raising kids isn’t cheap—good thing we’ve tracked down ways to save on school supplies and services! Check out these events!
Newton County Families: Newton Community Partnership offers support for families who may need help with parenting resources, or community connections. Learn more here.
š Transportation Info
Transportation info varies by county. Check here for bus routes, registration, and safety guidelines:
Pro Tip: Many districts now have apps to track bus arrival times. Worth a download!
š§ø After-School & Childcare Programs
Whether you’re working late or just need a safe place for the kids to learn and play:
- YMCA Programs (Dekalb, Rockdale, Newton)
- Boys & Girls Clubs
- Tutoring centers
š Dress Code & Uniforms
Don’t get caught off guard by the “clear bookbag” rule or uniform colors:
- Dekalb County Dress Code
- Rockdale County Dress Codes include clear bookbags and personal device lockable pouches for pre-k through 8th grade
- Newton County Dress Code
š©āļø Health & Wellness Requirements
Don’t forget immunizations, vision/hearing checks, and physicals for sports. Check your county’s requirements:
Newton County Families: NCP supports local health initiatives and school-based health clinics. Learn how to connect with local resources.
š¤ Special Needs & Parent Support
If your child has an IEP, 504 Plan, or special education needs, these resources can help:
- Dekalb County Schools Parent Information
- Rockdale County Schools Learning Support Department
- Newton County Schools Special Education Department
Newton County Families: NCP offers community support to help families navigate extra challenges. Learn more here.
š Community Events & Back-to-School Bashes
Start the year with some fun!
Dekalb County:
Rockdale County:
- Back to School Bash 2025 (Springfield Baptist Church) (July 26)
- Back to School Bash (July 26)
- Sistas With Goals Back 2 School Bash (July 26)
- Back to School Supplies Giveaway (July 27)
Newton County:
- Bookbag Giveaway (July 19)
- Back to School Supplies (July 19)
- Back to School Event and Movie @ Denny Dobbs Park (July 25)
- Back to School Supply Giveaway (July 26)
- Back to School Backpack & Supplies Giveaway (July 26)
- Back to School Bash @ Bethlehem Baptist Church (July 27)
- All About the Kids Back to School Event (August 9)
š Middle & High School Highlights
Big kids have big needs! Look here for:
- Career Academies
š Newton County Community Resources
Newton Community Partnership has your back this school year! Check out these resources for Newton County families:
- School-based health clinics
- Youth Action Team programs
- Substance abuse prevention resources
- Community food resources and gardens
- Literacy programs like Newton READS
Visit Newton Community Partnership online or follow them on Facebook for the latest updates!
š Here’s to a Great School Year!
Whether your kiddo is counting the days or dragging their feet, we’re wishing all our families a smooth and successful school year. And remember—if all else fails, there’s always coffee.
