Smart Start
Jefferson Parish Schools’ new back-to-school approach is designed to help students into the middle and high school experience. Smart Start uses the first four days of school to give grades 6-8 and 9-12 their own dedicated first day of school.
Educators will use the grade-specific days to help middle and high school students make the most of the academic, extracurricular, and well-being opportunities offered by the state’s largest school system.
JP Schools students in middle and high will operate on the Smart Start schedule for the first week of school. Students in grades pre-K to 5 are not impacted and will operate on their normal schedule. Only students in grades 6-12 will participate in the Smart Start schedule.
Teachers will attend school each day. While Smart Start will only take place the first week of school, school leaders are committed to adjusting schedules throughout the year to assist students.
The first day of school for students in grades 1-5 is August 7, 2026.
Smart Start Schedule
|
August 7, 2026 |
Only Grades 6th, 9th, and 12th |
|
August 10 |
Only Grades 7th, 8th, 10th, and 11th |
|
August 11 |
First Day All Students (Grades 6-8 and 9-12) |
Frequently Asked Questions
- What grades are participating in Smart Start?
- Are all high schools participating in Smart Start?
- What if my child attends a school that serves high school students and elementary and/or middle school students?
- Will teachers and staff attend school each Smart Start day?
- What if I still have questions specific to my high school student?