Get Back-to-School Ready

As parents prepare to send the kids back for another school year, here are a few tips that might help ease the transition and help families prepare for the upcoming school year.

Virginia’s Tax-Free Holiday, Aug. 1-3 

Take advantage of Virginia's three-day sales tax holiday (starting 12:01 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 1, through 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 3) to do your family’s back-to-school shopping. The tax holiday applies to more than just school supplies. Pick up clothing, shoes, coats as well as musical instruments and art supplies. It’s also a great time to make sure you have supplies for you and your family during an emergency that could cause you to lose access to food, water, electricity, cell phone service or other services.

The tax-free holiday applies to portable generators, gas-powered chainsaws and essential supplies, such as first aid kits, diapers, batteries and more, for your family, including infants and pets. Find more information on what to include in your emergency preparedness kit for at least three days. For full details about eligible tax-free items, visit the Virginia Department of Taxation. 

The Back-to-School Care Fair, Aug. 16 

Join Virginia Beach Schools and more than 100 youth-serving organizations, agencies and school division departments from noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 16, at the Virginia Beach Convention Center for an informational and fun-filled day to connect with valuable resources that promote youth development and well-being. The free event will feature family-friendly entertainment, presentations, giveaways and fun activities. 

The Virginia Beach Department of Public Health (VBDPH) will also be present to provide free vaccinations for rising seventh and 12th graders (TDap, HPV, Meningococcal) and physicals (elementary students only). These services are for Virginia Beach residents only. 

What to Bring: 

• Parent ID 
• Child vaccination record 
• Insurance information if child is insured  

Residents who are unable to attend the Back-to-School Care Fair may also schedule an appointment for vaccinations and physicals at the VBDPH Clinic by calling 757-518-2700.