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The School District of Palm Beach County

Educate. Affirm. Inspire.

Get ready for the first day of school!

Posted Date: 09/10/26 (10:24 PM)


A teacher gently guides a young student's hand as she draws with a pencil in a classroom.
The summer has flown by, and the back-to-school season is officially upon us! The administration and staff at Riverdale USD have been working hard over the summer to prepare our classrooms, plan engaging lessons, and get everything ready for our students' return.

We are incredibly excited to welcome all of our students back on Wednesday, September 2 for what promises to be our best school year yet!

Whether your child is stepping into a classroom for the very first time, transitioning into a new building, or walking the halls as a graduating senior, the start of a new school year is always a time of fresh starts and endless possibilities. We know this year will be filled with academic growth, new friendships, and unforgettable memories.

To help your family transition smoothly into the first week, we’ve put together a quick checklist and some important reminders for our three campuses:

School-Specific Reminders

Riverdale Elementary School
  • Bell Schedule: Doors open at 7:45 AM. The first bell rings at 8:00 AM, and dismissal is at 2:30 PM.
  • Drop-off/Pick-up: Please use the main car loop off Elm Street. Remember to stay in your vehicle to keep the line moving safely and smoothly. Staff will be outside to assist our younger students to their classrooms.
  • Supplies: Don’t forget to label your child’s backpack, lunchbox, and water bottle with their first and last name!
Riverdale Middle School
  • Bell Schedule: Doors open at 8:15 AM. The first bell rings at 8:30 AM, and dismissal is at 3:15 PM.
  • Schedules & Lockers: Students will receive their final printed class schedules and locker assignments in their 1st-period homeroom on Wednesday morning.
  • Physical Education: PE uniforms will not be required for the first three days of school. Students should just wear comfortable clothes and sneakers.
Riverdale High School
  • Bell Schedule: Doors open at 7:15 AM. The first bell rings at 7:30 AM, and dismissal is at 2:45 PM.
  • Student Parking: Seniors and juniors with parking passes must ensure their passes are visible hanging from the rearview mirror. Please park only in designated student lots.
  • Tech Check: Make sure your school-issued Chromebooks are fully charged the night before!

District-Wide Reminders

  • Transportation: Bus route information has been finalized and emailed to all registered families. Please arrive at your bus stop at least 10 minutes early during the first week as drivers get accustomed to their new routes.
  • Food Services: Breakfast and lunch will be served starting on the first day and are free for all students. 
  • Emergency Contact Info: Please log into the Riverdale USD Parent Portal before September 2 to ensure your emergency contact information, phone numbers, and addresses are completely up to date.

Transitions can bring a mix of excitement and first-day jitters, and that is completely normal! Please know that our teachers, counselors, and staff are here to support your students every step of the way. Let's approach this new year with a positive mindset, kindness, and a readiness to learn.

Get a good night's sleep on Tuesday, set those alarms, and we will see all your smiling faces bright and early on Wednesday, September 2!