Welcome back! More Georgia students return to school today

NORTHEAST GEORGIA — The backpacks are packed and buses are rolling as thousands more Georgia students return to class.

Friday, Aug. 7, marks the first day of the 2026-27 school year for students in districts across the state, from the mountains of North Georgia to communities in Middle and South Georgia.

Georgia does not have a statewide first day of school. Each district sets its own calendar, creating a back-to-school season that stretches from late July into mid-August.

Friday is a big back-to-school day in Northeast Georgia, where students in Habersham, Hall, Madison, Towns and White counties return to class.

Back in class

Most other districts in the region have already started.

Franklin and Jackson county schools and Jefferson City Schools returned July 30, followed by Banks, Barrow and Elbert counties and Commerce City Schools on July 31.

Students in Hart, Lumpkin, Oconee and Rabun counties returned Aug. 3. Dawson County and Gainesville City schools started Aug. 4, followed by Clarke, Stephens and Union counties on Aug. 5.

Forsyth County students returned on Aug. 6.S

With today’s openings, most Northeast Georgia students are now back in class.

Across the state, a handful of districts still have a few more days of summer before their school years begin.

Busier roads

The return to school means a change for everyone on the road. Expect increased traffic during your morning and afternoon commutes.

Drivers are reminded to slow down in school zones, watch for students and be prepared to stop when school buses are loading or unloading children.

For everyone heading back, and those already hitting the books, Now Georgia wishes you a safe and successful school year!

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