Excitement is brewing as thousands prepare for the Douglas County School System’s annual Back to School Kickoff being held on July 25, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The fifth annual event will take place at Legacy Arena at 9030 Highway 5 in Douglasville, offering students support and resources for the upcoming school year.   

Last year's celebration welcomed more than 5,000 families and united hundreds of educators, volunteers and community partners. Students and families received school supplies, explored district resources and connected with community organizations, making the Back to School Kickoff a successful start to the new school year. 

With school slated to begin Wednesday, August 5, 2026, this year’s Back to School Kickoff is anticipated to exceed last year’s event. 

“Community support at the Back to School Kickoff has been phenomenal, and we are incredibly grateful,” said Superintendent Dr. Trent North. “Serving students is at the heart of what we do, and we look forward to reaching even more students this year, continuing our mission to provide a first-class learning experience.”     

As enrolled Douglas County students enjoy games and indulge in delicious food, they will also receive complimentary drawstring backpacks. In addition to receiving these educational aids, families have the opportunity to personally connect with district departments. 

Thanks to donations from several community partners, scholars will experience an academic boost during the event and gain access to a wealth of community resources. 

Once again, the event will feature local organizations, including Beyond the Front Porch, Central Baptist Church, Children Youth and Special Needs-Cobb & Douglas Public Health, CHOA-Strong 4 Life, City of Douglasville Parks & Recreation, City of Douglasville Police, Cobb & Douglas Public Health, Comparion Insurance Agency, Cultural Arts Council Douglasville/Douglas County, Douglas County District Attorney’s Office, Douglas County Fire and EMS, Douglas County Police, Douglas County Head Start, Douglas County Parks and Recreation, Douglas County Public Library, Douglas County Senior Service, Ephesus Baptist Church, Georgia Power Company, Girl Scouts of Greater Atlanta, H.J.Russell & Company, Inspiring Scholars Academy, Safe Kids Douglas, Sheltering Arms, Sunshine House, UGA Extension 4-H, Waterford.org, West Georgia Technical College, and Wellstar Health System.

Additionally, the Family Health Center will further contribute, providing hearing, vision, nutrition, and dental screenings to help new families fulfill school enrollment requirements.  

The Douglas County School System appreciates the collaboration between volunteers, educators, and community partners to help make the event a remarkable success. 

While supplies last, school supplies will be available to Douglas County families. In addition, families will be able to enjoy food, music and fun for all ages. For safety precautions, weapons and drugs are prohibited, and all guests will be screened upon arrival. A clear bag policy will also be strictly enforced.  

For more information on the DCSS Back to School Kick-Off, please call 770-651-2000. View the Parking Information Guide for complete parking details, including shuttle locations.