This summer, pre-kindergarten programs, English as a Second Language and the magnet schools office had relocated to the Smith Administrative Center (formerly Smith Language Academy) located at 1600 Tyvola Rd. Phone and fax numbers have not changed.

To make sure families are ready for the first day of school, here’s a checklist of things you need to know:

• All parents are encouraged to update their contact information at their child’s school. In the case of an emergency, this information is imperative for a student’s safety. It also allows the school to keep families notified of changes.
• Review the 2012-2013 bell schedule.
• For those parents who need to enroll their children in school, North Carolina law requires that students five years of age on or before Aug. 31 be enrolled for kindergarten.
• Families new to CMS may find the information they need through the CMS web site. The section on newcomers will provide parents and students with details about enrollment, school zones and the Charlotte area.
• Immunizations will be a key factor when preparing kindergarteners and sixth-graders for the school year. All students entering kindergarten must present a health assessment (physical exam report) by the first day of school entry. The assessment must have been completed within 12 months of school entry. A certificate of immunizations must be present on the first day of school by a parent/guardian. Health clinics are available throughout Mecklenburg County with English and Spanish listings.  
• And finally, to help kick start the new school year, North Carolina will offer its annual back-to-school tax-free shopping weekend from Aug. 3-5. Consumers can save money by purchasing items like clothing, school supplies and computers during the holiday.For a list of what is exempt and what is not, see details here.