Parents arrive with their children on the first day of school at Ross Prairie Elementary School in Marion Oaks on Aug. 11, 2025. The first day of school this year is Aug. 10. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette file photo]Each new school year offers new information, much of which is shared at Marion County Public school orientations. This often gives students, parents and families opportunities to become more familiar with their new or returning campus and classroom layouts before the school year begins. (Wyomina Park Elementary students return July 21 because of year-round school.)