Excitement is building across Scioto County as thousands of students prepare to head back to school, marking the start of the 2025–2026 academic year. From first-time preschoolers to high school seniors gearing up for their final year, classrooms throughout the region will soon come alive with laughter, learning, and renewed energy.
Each district has announced its own start date and back-to-school plans. New Boston Local Schools will lead the way, with students returning as early as August 13. By the following week, students in Northwest Local Schools and Washington–Nile Local Schools (Portsmouth West) will also begin their school year. On August 21, classrooms at Clay Local Schools, Minford Local Schools, and Green Local Schools (High School) will be filled with eager minds ready to learn. Green Elementary will use a staggered start beginning August 25 to help younger students transition smoothly.
Portsmouth City Schools are set to open on August 25, welcoming students back from elementary through high school. Wheelersburg Local Schools will begin on August 20, and Valley Local Schools are expected to return in mid-August. In South Webster, Bloom-Vernon Local Schools will welcome students back on August 18, along with Sciotoville Community Schools.
At the Scioto County Career Technical Center (SCCTC), juniors will begin on August 13 with orientation, and seniors will join them on August 14. The Scioto County STEM Academy is expected to welcome students back around August 20, continuing its mission of preparing students for future careers in science, technology, engineering, and math.
From bright bulletin boards in elementary classrooms to career-focused labs in vocational programs, every school in the county is getting ready to make students feel welcomed and inspired. Teachers and staff have been hard at work preparing classrooms, finalizing lesson plans, and ensuring every building is safe, clean, and ready for another year of learning and growth.
School spirit is expected to be on full display during the first week, with many schools planning welcome-back events, themed decorations, and cheerful announcements. Younger students will meet their teachers, explore their classrooms, and adjust to new routines, while high schoolers dive into fall sports, student leadership roles, and college preparations.
A Note About Bus Safety
As school buses hit the roads again, local officials urge all drivers to exercise caution, especially during morning and afternoon pickup hours. Ohio law requires motorists to stop when a school bus displays flashing red lights and extends its stop arm. Parents are also encouraged to review bus safety guidelines with their children—like waiting for the driver’s signal to cross and remaining seated during the ride.
Looking Ahead With Optimism
Across Scioto County, families, educators, and students are looking forward to a school year filled with promise, curiosity, and connection. With new opportunities for learning, growing, and discovering talents, the 2025–2026 school year is shaping up to be one of the best yet. Here’s to a joyful, safe, and successful return to school—welcome back, Scioto County!
