As I reflect on my childhood, one of the most cherished memories was back-to-school shopping with my dad. It wasn’t just about the clothes or supplies—it was a tradition, a rite of passage as I moved through different stages of my life. When I was in junior high, I would get a $300 budget for new clothes. That may not seem like much today, but back then, I had to make it work by mixing and matching my new pieces with last year’s clothes and even my summer wardrobe. It taught me creativity and how to stretch a dollar—an invaluable life lesson that I carry with me to this day.
As I got older, my budget tripled, and my sense of fashion evolved with it. I felt confident, stylish, and most importantly, ready for the new school year. But the clothes, as exciting as they were, were never the main priority. My parents always made sure school supplies came first. My biggest pride wasn’t even in my new outfits; it was in owning a Trapper Keeper, my own sharpener, stapler, and all the tools I needed for school. Having those supplies made me feel organized and prepared for success, and it’s something I’ll never forget.
Another aspect that made me feel ready was how I presented myself. My aunt would cornrow my hair every Sunday night, and I made sure to tie it down each night to keep it neat for the week. This attention to detail wasn’t just about looking good, it was about respecting the process of being prepared for the challenges ahead.
The Shifts I See Today
Lately, I can’t help but feel like I’ve missed a whole decade. Today, it seems like the back-to-school experience has shifted drastically. I see kids heading to school in pajama pants, hoodies, crocs, and with nothing but a pen in hand. It’s shocking to witness such a lack of care for how they present themselves, especially when I remember how much pride I took in being prepared and looking my best. One day, I even saw a kid at the bodega wearing pajamas, and when I looked closer, I saw that his mom was dressed in the same thing under her coat. It made me wonder, when did we stop valuing these small but meaningful rituals?
Why Presentation and Preparation Matter
I believe there’s a connection between how a child dresses for school and how they perform in school. Teachers respect students who respect themselves, their peers, and the learning environment. This isn’t about expensive clothes or the latest fashion—it’s about showing up ready to engage, ready to learn, and respecting the space you’re in.
Parents play a critical role in this, too. Sending your child to school clean, dressed appropriately, and equipped with the necessary supplies sets them up for success. Being involved in your child’s academic career, staying in touch with teachers, and advocating for your child when they’re struggling is crucial. When kids feel supported both at home and at school, they’re more likely to succeed academically and socially.
The Impact of School Supplies
Something as simple as having the right supplies can boost a child’s confidence. I’ll never forget how owning a Trapper Keeper or having my own pencil sharpener made me feel. It wasn’t just about the items themselves—it was about the sense of independence and preparedness they gave me. School supplies may seem like a small thing, but they are tools for success.
Unfortunately, I see too many kids today walking into school with nothing but a pen, or worse, showing up empty-handed. This isn’t a recipe for success. We need to ensure that our kids are walking into school with the supplies they need, whether it’s notebooks, pencils, or even just a sense of readiness for the day ahead.
The Responsibility of Parents
Parents, we need to do better. It’s our job to make sure our children are prepared for school, both academically and socially. That means more than just sending them to school—it means sending them ready to learn, clean, and respectful. And when they tell you they’re being bullied or struggling, believe them. Advocate for them. It can be incredibly traumatizing for a child to feel like they don’t have anyone in their corner.
Supporting your child in school means being engaged, asking questions, and making sure they have the tools they need to succeed. It means holding them accountable but also providing them with the emotional and practical support they need to navigate the challenges of growing up.
Moving Forward
As I reflect on my own experiences growing up, I’m reminded of the importance of preparation, respect, and support. These are lessons I learned not just from my parents but from the experience of going back to school year after year, feeling confident and ready for whatever came next. We owe it to the next generation to instill these same values in them. Let’s make sure our kids show up to school dressed appropriately, with the supplies they need, and with the understanding that school is their opportunity to grow, learn, and succeed.
Questions for Readers:
- What are some of your favorite back-to-school memories from childhood?
- Do you think the way students dress affects their performance in school?
- How do you ensure your child is prepared for the school year, both with supplies and attitude?
- What are some ways we, as a community, can better support students and families during the back-to-school season?
