Living in Short Pump

It’s that magical time in Short Pump again—backpacks are calling your name, pencils just look sharper, and the PTO is waking from summer hibernation. School is about to start, and you’re about to ace the art of school prep, all while keeping spirits high and stress low.

When Does It All Begin?

Mark your calendars: Henrico County Public Schools kicks off the 2024-25 school year on Monday, August 19, 2024. You’ve got a little time to shop and shape those routines—use it well! Winter Break begins December 23 and runs through January 3, with Spring Break on the horizon for April 7 to 11. The last day of school is June 5, so you can even start dreaming about next summer’s plans.

Shopping for A+ Supplies

Get ready to check off every box on the school supply list. Forget running all over town—we’ve rounded up the stars of Short Pump’s school supply scene. Each spot has plenty of parking and way more than just spiral notebooks.

School Supply Stores in Short Pump, VA

(Pro tip: Short Pump is packed with shops, but these stay busy in August—so get there early for the best picks.)

Back-to-School Tips That Actually Work

Make Routines Fun Again

Kids love summer hours. But you can make early mornings less painful by starting a bedtime routine a week or two before school starts. Keep screens out of the bedroom. Try a calming activity: reading, chatting, or recapping the best parts of the day. Suddenly, 7AM wakeups won’t feel so harsh.

Get Ready the Night Before…Every Night

Keep the weekday scrambling to a minimum by laying out outfits, packing backpacks, and lining up shoes by the door. Yes, you’ll still find a sock hiding under the couch, but the odds are ever in your favor.

Lists Are Your Friend

There’s nothing wrong with a little paper-and-pen magic. Make a school supply list—and stick to it. Kids can help, too, especially with checking off new markers or a stylish lunch bag.

Designate a Homework Spot

Homework doesn’t have to be a dreaded event. Set up a simple space—think small table, good lamp, basket of pencils, and a plant if you’re feeling wild. When kids have their own spot, it’s much easier to get focused (and finish faster).

The Art of Being Organized

• Label everything. Backpacks, jackets, lunchboxes—you name it. Personalized tags make lost-and-found runs much less frequent.

• Practice the route to school. Whether you’re walking, busing, or carpooling, do a few test runs. Maybe even time them for fun.

• Start a calendar. Big wall versions keep everyone on track. Mark birthdays, game days, half-days, and pizza Fridays.

The School Calendar: Your Best Friend

Here’s what Short Pump parents should know for the 2024-25 school year:

• First Day of School: August 19, 2024

• Winter Break: December 23, 2024, to January 3, 2025

• Spring Break: April 7 to 11, 2025

• Last Day of School: June 5, 2025

Don’t forget: There are also a few teacher workdays and early releases—keep your eyes on those dates shown on the official Henrico County Public Schools calendar.

Enrolling Your Star Student

If you’re new to Short Pump or registering a child for the first time, here’s what to do:

How to Enroll in Henrico County Public Schools:
Step 1: Complete online registration using PowerSchool (find the link on the Henrico Schools website).
Step 2: Gather your paperwork: proof of residency, your child’s birth certificate, immunization records, and a parent photo ID.

Tip: If you don’t want to use the online system, you can also book an appointment and register in person at your assigned school.

Bonus: There’s a handy School Locator tool to help you find out exactly where your child will attend. Check the school’s website for that link and more registration help.

Get Kids Excited About Learning

• Talk About the Fun Stuff
  Share stories about friends, favorite classes, or clubs your child could join. Let them help pick supplies—they’ll be more likely to use that neon green folder if they chose it.

• Set Goals As a Family
  Maybe it’s reading a book a month, finishing homework before dinner, or joining a new after-school activity. Whatever the plan, celebrate small wins.

• Build Flexibility
  Buses run late. Schedules change. If things go sideways, have a laugh and show your child that it’s all part of school life.

Sweeten the First Week

• Pack a special lunch or leave a silly note in their backpack.

• Say yes to a new backpack in their favorite color.

• Take a classic first-day photo at the bus stop or front porch.

You’re Ready for Back-To-School Season!

Back-to-school prep in Short Pump is all about planning, organization, and—most importantly—having a little fun along the way. Arm yourself with a fresh calendar, a well-packed backpack, and a flexible attitude, and you’re set for a fantastic school year ahead.