As students and parents prepare for the first day of school on August 24, Mid-Prairie West Elementary Principal Bill Poock reminds them of what to do to be ready. Along with pencils, binders, folders, and the normal school supplies, Mid-Prairie is asking for parents to send some additional items with their kids for the first day of school. Poock elaborates, “We also suggest that parents send a small bottle of hand sanitizer for their child to keep at their desk if they so choose. We also will have hand sanitizer available. We are also considering asking parents to send a towel for their child to use when we go outside for various learning activities. We are encouraging our staff to hold learning activities outside when the weather is nice so that we can provide a chance for kids to get outside, breathe some fresh air, and enjoy the weather.” Immunizations and health check-ups are also required for students before the first day of school. Each grade level has different health requirements, so Poock recommends parents talk with their child’s health care provider and the school nurse to see what needs to be completed prior to August 24. A full list of school items and health requirements can be found on the Mid-Prairie school district website.