The countdown to a new school year has officially begun, and for many Brandon families, the next few weeks will be filled with school supply shopping, schedule changes, and preparing students for the classroom.

To help make the transition a little easier, we've gathered several important updates and resources that parents should know before the first day of school.

🎒 Save Money During Florida's Back-to-School Tax Holiday

There's good news for families looking to stretch their school budget.

Florida's annual Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday is underway July 20 through August 20, allowing shoppers to save on many school-related purchases, including qualifying clothing, shoes, backpacks, school supplies, and eligible personal computers and accessories.

Whether you're shopping for notebooks, lunch boxes, backpacks, or a new laptop for high school or college, this is one of the best times of the year to make those purchases.

🎒 Free Backpacks and School Supplies

Several organizations across Hillsborough County are stepping up to help local students begin the school year prepared.

One of the largest events is the Back 2 School Bash on Saturday, August 1, at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds in Dover.

The free event will feature:

• Backpack and school supply giveaways (while supplies last)
• Community resource booths
• Family activities
• Food vendors
• Children's entertainment
•  

Organizers note that backpack distribution will be available on a walk-up basis, making it easier for families who need assistance preparing for the school year.

🏫 Hillsborough Schools Are Getting Ready

Hillsborough County Public Schools is also helping families prepare with:

• Back-to-school enrollment sessions
• Information fairs
• District resources
• School choice information
• Family support services
•  

The district is also celebrating an important milestone after earning its first "A" district grade since 2014, reflecting improved academic performance across the county.

✔️ Crosstown's Checklist

Before the first day of school, consider checking these items off your list:

✅ Confirm your child's school schedule.

✅ Purchase supplies during the tax-free holiday.

✅ Update emergency contacts.

✅ Review transportation plans.

✅ Attend any school orientation events.

✅ Label backpacks, lunch boxes, and water bottles.

A little preparation now can make the first week of school much less stressful.

Crosstown Journal Perspective

The start of a new school year is one of the busiest times for Brandon families. Beyond shopping lists and paperwork, it's also a reminder of how many local organizations, schools, churches, nonprofits, and volunteers work together each year to help students succeed.

If you know of a local backpack giveaway, school supply drive, or community event that could help Brandon families, let us know. We'd love to include it in a future edition of Crosstown Journal.