The Brief Students across Tampa Bay, including Hillsborough County, are heading back to school as families face rising costs for supplies, clothing and electronics. Florida's back-to-school sales tax holiday is underway through Aug. 20, while Tampa Bay communities are also holding events to help families with free school supplies. It's the first day back at school for students across the Tampa Bay area, including thousands of students in Hillsborough County. Tampa Bay school costsWhat we know:School supplies, clothing and electronics are among the expenses families are facing as prices continue to increase. Many qualifying school supplies, clothing and other items are tax-free through Aug. 20.