Believe it or not, the first day of school is just around the corner for thousands of students across the Sioux Falls area. That means families are getting ready for earlier bedtimes, school supply shopping, and the return of busy morning routines. For students in the Sioux Falls School District, the first day of classes for Junior Kindergarten through 12th grade is Thursday, August 27, 2026. Here's a quick look at when several area school districts are welcoming students back for the 2026-27 school year:• Lennox School District: Friday, August 21• Sioux Falls School District: Thursday, August 27• Brandon Valley School District: Thursday, August 20• Harrisburg School District: Wednesday, August 19• Tea Area School District: Wednesday, August 19• Tri-Valley School District: Wednesday, August 19As always, parents should double-check with their individual school or district because preschool programs, kindergarten orientations, and staggered start schedules may vary. The start of a new school year also means drivers should be prepared for heavier traffic around schools, school buses back on the roads, and lower speed limits in designated school zones.