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First Day of School

  • Patterson Elementary 1211 East Guadalupe Road Gilbert, AZ, 85234 United States (map)

First Day of School Information – Tuesday, July 22

The first day of school is always an exciting time, but it’s also very busy! Please read the information below to help ensure a smooth and safe start to the year.

Morning Drop-Off (Tuesday Only):

  • Families may walk students to class beginning at 7:45 AM.

  • We kindly ask that all families exit campus by 8:05 AM.

  • After dropping off your student and snapping a quick photo, please exit promptly to help reduce congestion.

  • This is also a great time to drop off any classroom supplies.

  • There will be no morning recess on the first day of school.

  • Teachers will be focused on welcoming students and will not be available for conversations.

Starting Wednesday, July 23:

  • Families will drop students off at the gates only, no earlier than 7:45 AM.

  • Morning recess will resume from 7:45–8:00 AM.

  • The front office is not available for student drop-off.

Pick-Up & Drop-Off Procedures

🚫 Please do not use the school parking lot for drop-off or pick-up.
It is reserved for staff only and does not have space for additional vehicles.

Grades K–2:

  • Use the Wonderful Mercy Church parking lot (east of campus).

  • Use the rear campus gate for entry/exit.

  • This is NOT a drop-off line – you must park and walk your child to the gate using the crosswalk.

  • Follow the traffic pattern: Enter at the west entrance, exit from the east side.

Grades 3–6:

  • Use the Freestone Rec Center parking lot (west of campus).

  • You may park or walk with your student to the gate.

Families with children in multiple grades are welcome to choose the most convenient location for drop-off and pick-up.

PreK:

  • Watch for specific instructions from your child’s teacher.

Walkers & Bikers:

  • Use sidewalks and crosswalks for safety.

  • The bike rack is located on the west side of the school.

Bus Riders:

  • Students will need their student ID to board the bus starting the second day.

  • On the first day, they may ride without an ID.

Our main priority is the safety of all students. Thank you for following these procedures and helping us start the year off smoothly!

Earlier Event: July 18
Meet Your Teacher Night
Later Event: July 23
Early Release at 1:55pm