The first weeks back to school is a stressful time even in the best of times. For tips on how to navigate stress, the pandemic, the challenges of spending more time at home, developmental milestones, etc., turn to this 15-page document from the state Department of Children, Youth & Families.

Students do not need to meet school immunization requirements during distance learning but will need to be current when they are back on school campus for any reason, including small group learning or extracurricular activities.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced the extension of several flexibilities to allow free meals to be available to all children through the 2020-21 school year.

It is still important that families fill out the free- and reduced-price meal economic survey that is sent out. State basic education funding depends on knowing how many students qualify for this program. If families do not fill out these surveys, school districts would see a reduction in state basic education funding next school year -- and eventually their federal funding may also be reduced.