Back-to-school season in El Dorado Hills is rolling in, and it’s about time to trade in pool floats for pencils. If you are a student, parent, or even an enthusiastic supply shopper, you’ve got some prepping to do—but fear not, we’re making this as easy (and fun) as possible.

Fresh Starts and Fresh Notebooks

There’s something strangely satisfying about brand-new notebooks and that fresh-pack-of-pens smell. Before you get lost in a daydream, here are some classic survival supplies for high schoolers:

• Pens and pencils (if your old ones haven’t migrated to lost-and-found land)

• Notebooks and binders (color coded = instant organization)

• Highlighters (because you’re highlighting that you care)

• A sturdy backpack (bonus points for snack compartments)

• Calculator, index cards, sticky notes (for that “I’m-so-ready” vibe)

Where to Shop (and Actually Find What You Need)

If you’re in El Dorado Hills, you have some fantastic options for grabbing all the must-have school supplies—and maybe bumping into a friend or two while you’re at it. Check out these favorite spots in and near town:

• Office Depot is your one-stop shop for everything from folders and planners to tech gadgets. With a location just down the road in Folsom, it’s easy to go in person or order online for curbside pickup.

• A Brighter Child Homeschool Books is a treasure trove for textbooks, supplemental workbooks, and teacher supplies. It’s in Roseville, a quick drive (and a great field trip for the super prepared).

• Walmart on Placerville Road in Folsom stocks affordable supplies, lunch boxes, and even some last-minute snacks for the first week of school.

• Target at El Dorado Hills Town Center makes picking up backpacks, binders, trendy supplies, and treats a breeze.

Don’t forget: El Dorado Hills also hosts fun school supply drives throughout the summer, like the energetic “Stuff the Bus” event at Town Center, where families can pitch in and make sure every kid returns to class ready to go.

Tick-Tock: The Routine Reset

After a summer of late mornings, the school-day alarm can feel a little… rude. Try gently shifting your schedule back to school mode a week early. Set your alarm a smidge closer to school wake-up time and get your bedtime back on track. Your future self (and brain) will thank you.

Bonus tip: Plan out some quick, healthy breakfasts—whole-grain toast, yogurt, or those apples that have been rolling around your fridge drawer. Breakfast is fuel for brainpower and mood alike.

Packing Your Backpack—With Smarts

Before the big day, assemble your supplies and paperwork. Take a few minutes the night before school starts to pack your bag. That way, you’re already ahead of the game (and nobody wants to be the person desperately digging through their closet at 7:45 AM).

• Pack essentials: Notebooks, pens, schedule, and those mysterious forms sent by the school

• Try out new shoes: Break them in so your first day blisters don’t end up as show-and-tell

• Bring your best outfit: Whatever makes you feel most you, whether it’s a new tee or an old favorite hoodie

Make Back-to-School Work for You

Start the Year Strong (and Stay Ahead)

Getting off to a brisk start can set the tone for your whole year. It’s much easier to stay ahead now rather than playing catch-up mid-semester.

• Create a daily routine and stick to it as much as possible

• Use a planner—yes, even if your phone already has a calendar (color-coding adds flair and focus)

• Break up big assignments into bite-sized pieces, so they don’t get overwhelming

• Mark everything in your planner—not just homework, but also game nights, tryouts, and taco Tuesdays

Your Desk Isn’t the Only Study Spot

If the same old desk feels boring, switch it up. Try the kitchen table, coffee shop, library, or even the park. A switch of scenery can actually help your brain hold onto information better. Plus, it makes homework feel a tiny bit more adventurous.

Don’t Skip the Mental Health Check

Back-to-school jitters? Totally normal. Here’s how to keep cool (and maybe even enjoy the ride):

• Get enough sleep. Your brain does its best work when not running on fumes.

• Exercise is magic. Even a quick walk or bike ride helps.

• Jot down tomorrow’s to-dos before bed so your mind can rest.

• Screen time detox: Give yourself a break from those late-night scrolls so you can fall asleep faster.

Lean In to Lunchtime

Lunch is more than just fuel—it’s your daily chance to relax and connect. Try chatting with a new classmate, making small talk, and stepping away from your phone. Friendships can begin with something as casual as “Hey, cool sandwich.”

El Dorado Hills Back-to-School Vibes

The excitement around back-to-school in El Dorado Hills is contagious. Whether you love shopping for supplies or dread the early wake-ups, it’s a yearly tradition that brings the community together. Volunteering at local drives, joining school events, or just cheering on young learners can make this season truly special.

Grab that planner, sharpen those pencils, and step into your best school year yet—El Dorado Hills style!

Sources: peacheycounselling.ca, yelp.com 
Header Image Source: Element5 Digital on Unsplash