August 18, 2025

As students and families wrap up summer vacations, Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD) is gearing to roar into the new school year! The official first day of school is Monday, August 25, for the 2025–26 school year.

DPSCD wants to ensure every family is fully prepared to return their students to the classroom. Families, please take a moment to visit your students’ school website to confirm the bell schedule, appropriate dress code and learn about other important information. Please ensure your contact information is up to date with your students’ school to receive the most current updates and emergency notifications.

Visit the Back-to-School website for access to essential information and wraparound support services to help students launch into learning. Don’t forget to download and print the 2025–26 Academic Calendar to stay ahead of important dates!

Back-to-School Need to Know

Public Safety

For the safety of all DPSCD students, the Office of Public Safety encourages families to develop a safety plan for the school year.

• Contact your student's school for safety procedures and protocols.
• For school safety concerns, call 313-748-6000.
• For emergencies outside of school, please call 911.
• Families are reminded to review the District’s guidelines for proper use of technology to support safe and effective learning.

Transportation

DPSCD is committed to helping students get to school safely and on time.
 Visit the Transportation page to:

• View 2025–26 bus stops
• Review the District’s transportation policy
• Contact the transportation leadership team with questions

School Nutrition 

 All DPSCD students receive free breakfast and lunch daily.
 Visit the Division of School Nutrition page to explore meal options and wellness programs.

Health-Related Services and Initiatives

DPSCD offers support to the whole child through Universal Wellness Screening that occur in the fall. Learn more about immunizations and physical health at the Physical Health Partnership page. DPSCD offers a variety of health-related services:

• Nurses: DPSCD schools have a nurse who provides health services. Students in center-based schools may have a 1:1 nurse to provide specialized care.
• Dental & Vision Services: Onsite dental care and vision screenings (including eyeglasses) are available.
• Behavioral Health Services: DPSCD partners with agencies for in-school behavioral support.
• School-Based Health Centers: Offer comprehensive care including check-ups, chronic condition management, and mental health.
• Immunizations: Our mobile Nurse Vaccine Team provides routine vaccinations, flu, and COVID shots.

Exceptional Student Education (ESE)

The Office of Exceptional Student Education supports specialized learning for students.

• Learn more about services and programs by visiting the ESE page.

Enrollment, Family, and Community Engagement (E-FACE)

The E-FACE Office helps families connect and advocate through:

• PTA involvement
• Parent Academy: Explore free workshops via the Parent Academy Catalog
• Student Leadership Programs

Homeless and Foster Care Services (OHFC)

OHFC supports students facing housing instability, including:

• Shared housing due to hardship
• Living in motels or shelters
• Unaccompanied youth without a fixed residence

To request support:

• • Call 313-748-6383
  • Email ohfc@detroitk12.org
  • Submit a McKinney-Vento referral form

Volunteer Program

Become a DPSCD volunteer and support your school community. All volunteers must complete the Galaxy Volunteer Process each school year. Questions? Contact FACE at 313-873-7490.

Bookmark the Parent Toolbox for year-round access to:

• PowerSchool Login
• ESE Support
• Family Hub
• Student Resources
• Volunteer Opportunities

Students interested in Athletics, fall sports are underway! Explore eligibility and sports programs at the Student Support Athletics page. All K–12 students must have a current sports physical on file to participate in athletic activities.

For more information, visit detroitk12.org. Let’s make this school year the best one yet! Students Rise, We All Rise!