Back to School in Gallatin Valley: What Families Need to Know

A new school year is about to begin, and for many families this time can feel both exciting and overwhelming. Between school supplies, health requirements, and organizing schedules, there’s a lot to prepare. At Bienvenidos, we want to make sure you have the key information and resources to start the year with confidence.

Important Dates and Events

Sunday, August 17 – Back-to-School Vaccine Clinic
Willson Gym, 404 W. Main Street, Bozeman (enter through 5th Street)
1:00–6:00 p.m.

• Required vaccines for school (TDap, MMR, Varicella, Polio)

• Age-recommended vaccines (HPV, Hepatitis A/B)
  Register here

Sunday, August 24 – Health Fair with Proyecto Salud
Bridgercare, 1288 N 14th Ave #201, Bozeman
10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.

• Free medical and sports exams

• Vaccines

• Screenings for diabetes, blood pressure, vision, and more
  Questions: salud@montana.edu or WhatsApp 406-220-7304

Friday, August 29 – HRDC Back-to-School Shopping Event
Gallatin Fairgrounds, Building #1

• Medical services: 2:00–6:00 p.m.

• Shopping: 4:00–6:00 p.m.
  Free new and gently used clothing, backpacks, personal care items, haircuts, prescriptions, and more.

School Meals

Applications for free and reduced-price school meals are now open. Families must reapply every year to keep benefits. One application per household is needed, and citizenship is not required to apply.

Apply here: myschoolapps.com/Application
Questions: Kirsten Michels – kirsten.michels@bsd7.org

English Classes for Students and Parents

Starting September 2, English Para Todos will offer free English classes for students ages 12 to 18 as extra school support. Parents can also take classes on a “pay what you can” fee scale.

Schedule: Monday–Thursday, 7:00–8:30 p.m. (Sept. 2–Nov. 20)
Locations: Bozeman and Belgrade
Register: englishparatodosmt.com or WhatsApp 406-581-8401

Getting Ready for the First Day

• Mark your calendar: School in Bozeman begins September 2.

• Physicals: If your child plays sports, schedule a physical before the season starts. CHP Belgrade and Livingston offer discounted physicals if you can’t attend the above dates.

• Documents: Make sure vaccinations, registration forms, and transportation arrangements are complete before the first week.

• School meals: Apply early for meal benefits to avoid coverage gaps.

• Supplies: Check with your child’s school for grade-specific supply lists. The HRDC event is a great way to get clothing and essentials.

• Spanish support:

  • Bozeman School District: bsd7.org/bienvenidos2

  • Belgrade School District: bsd44.org – Multilingual Learners

  • Big Sky School District: bssd72.org (click the top right corner for Spanish)

  • For direct help in Bozeman, contact Magdalena Nava Morales, Multilingual Enrollment Coordinator: 406-522-6011 or magdalena.navamorales@bsd7.org

Starting a new school year is always a big step for children and families. Taking care of health needs, having supplies ready, and knowing where to go for support can make the transition much smoother. Bienvenidos is here to help connect families with resources, answer questions, and ensure every student has what they need to succeed.