Back to class: What to know for the 2025-2026 Nevada school year

This story appeared in The Nevadan newsletter, subscribe here.

The first day of school in Nevada is Aug. 11. Here are some reminders and things to note ahead of the 2025-2026 school year:

Clark County School District

Last year, CCSD implemented some new rules: cell phone use is prohibited in classrooms, students must wear their ID badges visibly at all times, and metal detectors have been installed in some high schools.

Students from sixth to 12th grade must put their cell phones away in a signal-blocking pouch while in class. The pouches help prevent distractions, according to CCSD. The pouches don’t lock and remain near students, meaning they are accessible in case of an emergency. 

Students are also able to take their cell phones out between class periods and during lunch. 

School choice

If for any reason you would like your student to attend a school different from the one assigned in your zone, you can request a change until Aug. 22.

This does not guarantee that the change can be made, as some schools may no longer have space for additional students.

CCSD also offers late applications to magnet schools that still have available seats. Usually, the deadline for magnet school applications is in January.

For students who might be more successful in a virtual or online school setting, there’s also the Nevada Learning Academy (NVLA). Registration for NVLA is open until Aug. 8. New students must register in person.

Transportation

CCSD provides transportation for students who live two miles or more from their assigned school.

Exceptions may apply for students with disabilities and/or medical needs.

Parents or guardians can get information about transportation by visiting transportation.ccsd.net, where they can check their child’s eligibility for transportation and access bus stop information.

Don’t forget to verify the bus stop, especially if your child attends a magnet school, since stops are designated at centralized locations throughout the county.

You can also get information by downloading the Onboard app, which tracks school buses and shows their routes.

Parents can also access Campus Parent approximately two weeks before the start of each school year, or call 702-799-8100 for more information about routes.

Washoe County School District

School choice

WCSD offers two enrollment windows, one in the fall and one in the spring, when families can apply to a school other than their student’s zoned school. 

The dates will be announced in the near future. The “School of Choice” window is currently closed. More information here.

Transportation 

Bus stop information for the 2025-2026 school year will be available July 28.

WCSD has a new partnership with RTC, and while it’s not the same as the yellow school bus system, students under 18 can ride the public buses for free. Whether they need reliable transportation to school, summer programs, jobs, or other opportunities. 

As of June 7, students can download the pass onto their phone, which is valid until June 31, 2026. 

Note: RTC buses follow city transit routes and schedules.