Important back-to-school reminders

The 2026-2027 school year has almost arrived! Northwest ISD begins the new year on Wednesday, August 12, and we want students and families to be prepared with the following news and reminders.

In addition to the details listed below, be sure to visit www.nisdtx.org/backtoschool for important events and dates relevant to your child’s school. Expect additional communication from your school in the days ahead as we prepare for a great year.

Enrollment Ongoing

Families who have not yet enrolled their child for the upcoming school year should complete enrollment immediately at www.nisdtx.org/enrollment. Late enrollment may result in class changes as student numbers continue to grow. Required documents include proof of residency and updated immunization records.

School Start & Dismissal Times

School start and dismissal times are posted on the “School Hours” page under “About Us” on the district website.

Schedule Availability & Teacher Assignments

Elementary families will be notified of their child's teacher by phone or email on August 6 or 7. Due to enrollment changes, notifications may take time to complete. Teacher assignments and secondary student schedules will also be available in Home Access Center the afternoon of August 7.

Bus Route Details & Smart Tag App

Families whose children ride the bus can view route information in Home Access Center beginning August 7. Because routes may change before school starts due to enrollment growth, check again during the first week of school and do not rely on last year's information. Families are also encouraged to download the Smart Tag app to track their child's bus.

First Week Procedures at Elementary Schools

Elementary families may walk students into the building during the first week of school, August 12 to 14. Beginning the second day of school (Thursday, August 13), all visitors must sign in at the front office.

Back-to-School Event Dates

Northwest ISD campuses will host events to welcome students and families before the start of school. Elementary Meet the Teacher events will take place Monday, August 10, while high schools will host Meet the Mascots celebrations on August 6, 7 or 10. Also find Pre-K and Kinder Camp information on the web page. Event dates and times vary by campus. Visit www.nisdtx.org/backtoschool for a full schedule.

Online Absence Reporting

Northwest ISD families can report student absences online at absence.nisdtx.org. After submitting the form, parents or guardians will receive a verification email to confirm the absence, ensuring students cannot submit absences without parent approval. QR codes linking to the form are also available in each campus front office.

Vacation Planning

Northwest ISD encourages families to plan vacations around the district calendar to help maximize student learning. Every day in the classroom supports academic success, and consistent attendance makes a difference. Save this Vacation Planning printable for an easy reference to extended student holiday breaks throughout the school year. You can also view the complete 2026-2027 academic calendar at www.nisdtx.org/calendars.

Immunization Clinics

Immunization clinics offering back-to-school vaccinations will take place on July 25, 27, 31 and August 1, with services offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Students must be 3–18 years old and currently enrolled in Northwest ISD to participate. A parent or guardian must be present, and a current shot record or school note listing missing vaccines is required. For full clinic details, locations and costs, visit this web page.

New Technology Safeguards Implemented

Following months of feedback from students, staff and families, Northwest ISD has adopted new technology safeguards to support distraction-free learning and keep students focused in the classroom. The updated standards include grade-level limits on device use, expanded content restrictions and a new parent portal that allows families to view their child's browsing history. Developed using community input, the safeguards are designed to create a balanced approach to technology while strengthening teaching, learning and family partnerships. For a full breakdown of Northwest ISD's updated technology safeguards, view this news article. Community feedback from surveys conducted this year can be viewed on this community dashboard.

Student Devices Prohibited

In accordance with state law, students across Texas are no longer allowed to use personal digital communication devices during the school day. Prohibited personal devices include cellphones, laptops, tablets, smartwatches, wireless earphones and other personal communication technology.