MURFREESBORO–RUTHERFORD COUNTY, Tenn. (WGNS) – With the start of the 2025–2026 school year just around the corner, Rutherford County and Murfreesboro City Schools have laid out thoughtful schedules to help families and students prepare without feeling rushed.

Rutherford County Schools will kick things off on Wednesday, Aug. 6, with a two-hour orientation designed to ease students back into the routine and familiarize them with their teachers and surroundings. Teachers will take Thursday, Aug. 7, to prepare, leaving students a quiet break before the momentum begins. Then, on Friday, Aug. 8, the first full day of classes starts, and learning officially begins.

For Murfreesboro City Schools, the week gets underway on Friday, Aug. 1, with a district professional development day. The following Monday, Aug. 4, schools will host open houses from 4 to 5:30 p.m., offering parents a chance to meet their children’s teachers and see classrooms firsthand. Staff stay back on Tuesday, Aug. 5 for planning and preparation. Wednesday, Aug. 6, brings a half-day for students in grades 1–6 (about three and a half hours), helping them settle in more gradually. Then comes another staff-only day on Thursday, Aug. 7, before students return for their first full day of school on Friday, Aug. 8.

By staggering these activities—orientation, open houses, half-days, and workdays—the districts aim to reduce stress for students and staff alike. Families are encouraged to mark down Aug. 6 for orientation and half-days, and Aug. 8 for the full launch of the year. Keep an eye out for any changes to bus schedules or drop-off times during orientation and half-days. It’s also a good idea for parents of kindergarteners to check in with schools about any unique start-day arrangements.

As arrivals ramp up and hallways fill, this carefully planned week is designed to set everyone up for success. If you’d like help finding school supply lists, bus routes, or district calendar links, I’m ready to assist.