August 10, 2026
Back-to-school reminder on a chalkboard: 'School starts August 20'; list: 1) Fill out forms 2) Pick up stuff, with a pencil cup and stacked books nearby.

It may feel like peak summer in Santa Monica, but for SMMUSD students the back-to-school countdown is already underway.

Classes across the District begin Thursday, August 20.  In the weeks leading up, middle and high school campuses are opening their doors for the annual “Get Your Stuff Day” tradition. It’s part logistics, part social reunion—students pick up schedules, locker info and ID cards while catching up with friends before the first bell rings.

Here’s everything you need to know:


Exterior of a modern high school building with a large 'Samohi' sign, fenced grounds and trees.Santa Monica High School (Samohi)

The pickup schedule for Santa Monica High School is staggered by grade and last name. All sessions end with a final entry at 11:30 a.m. unless otherwise noted.

Thursday, August 6 – Grade 12

  • 8:30 am: Last names A–D
  • 9:15 am: E–L
  • 10:00 am: M–R
  • 10:45 am: S–Z

Friday, August 7 – Grade 11

  • 8:30 am: F–K
  • 9:15 am: L–Q
  • 10:00 am: R–Z
  • 10:45 am: A–E

Monday, August 10 – Grade 10

  • 8:30 am: M–R
  • 9:15 am: S–Z
  • 10:00 am: A–E
  • 10:45 am: F–L

Tuesday, August 11 – Grade 9 

  • 8:30 am: S–Z
  • 9:30 am: L–R
  • 10:30 am: G–K
    (Last morning entry: 11:30 a.m.)
  • 1:00 pm: D–F
  • 2:00 pm: A–C

What to Know

  • Students will take ID photos during these sessions.
  • Complete data validation by Sunday, August 2 to ensure ASB and off-campus lunch eligibility is printed on ID cards. Incomplete registration? Report to computer lab in D103.

Note:  The school will host a Freshman & New Student Orientation on Friday, August 14.  Check in at 10:45 a.m.  This event is optional, but strongly encouraged.


Lincoln Middle School in Santa MonicaLincoln Middle School

Lincoln Lions will receive locker assignments and preliminary schedules during their designated time. Final schedules will be distributed on the first day of school.

Wednesday, August 12 

  • 9:00 am: Grade 6, A–L
  • 10:30 am: Grade 6, M–Z

Thursday, August 13

  • 9:00 am: Grade 7
  • 10:30 am: Grade 8

What to Know

  • PE uniforms and school spirit wear will be available for purchase. Students are not required to purchase specific PE clothing but must follow campus dress code guidelines.

John Adams Middle School (JAMS) in Santa MonicaJohn Adams Middle School (JAMS)

Students at John Adams Middle School do not use lockers. Students will receive their class schedules during pickup.

Thursday, August 13

  • 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. – All students, all grades
  • 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. – All students, all grades

What to Know

  • PE uniforms and spirit wear will be available for purchase.  Specific PE purchases are optional, but students must meet dress code standards.

Questions?  Contact Angelica Malone at 310-452-2326 ext. 72202.


🗓️ Important Dates

Here are a few important dates to put on your calendar.  Be sure to bookmark our complete list of SMMUSD Events.

Thursday, August 20
First day of classes

Friday, August 21
FB:  Samohi Vikings v. Westchester

Friday, September 4
Picture Day – JAMS

Monday, September 7
Labor Day – No classes

Thursday, September 10
Back to School night (LMS & JAMS)

Thursday, September 24
Back to School Night – Samohi




Sean Daly