Allen ISD's first day of school is Thursday, August 13, and families still have supply lists to check, bus routes to confirm and a tax-free shopping weekend to plan around.

Here's what parents and students need to know, campus by campus.

Bell schedules

Allen ISD staggers start times across four levels, according to Community Impact, which published the district's back-to-school details on Monday, July 27:

  • Elementary schools: 7:45 a.m. to 2:55 p.m.
  • Middle schools: 8:20 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
  • Lowery Freshman Center: 8:45 a.m. to 4:05 p.m.
  • Allen High School: 8:50 a.m. to 4:10 p.m.

A family with kids at multiple campuses could see drop-off times spread across more than an hour.

Bus eligibility

The district operates more than 130 buses. Students who live two or more miles from their assigned school qualify for bus service. Route, stop and eligibility details are available on the district's transportation page and through the My Ride K-12 app.

Tax-free weekend: Friday, August 7 through Sunday, August 9

Before school starts, Texas shoppers get a sales-tax break.

The Texas Comptroller's office says most clothing, footwear, school supplies and backpacks priced under $100 are exempt from sales tax during the three-day window.

The exemption applies to purchases from Texas businesses, including online orders, as long as the item is paid for and either delivered or shipped during the period.

Allen ISD's campus-specific supply lists are posted on the district website.

Key calendar dates

The Allen ISD Board of Trustees approved the 2026-27 academic calendar at its Monday, October 27, 2025 meeting. Major dates:

  • Fall break: Monday, October 12 through Friday, October 16, 2026
  • Thanksgiving break: Monday, November 23 through Friday, November 27, 2026
  • Winter break: Monday, December 21, 2026 through Monday, January 4, 2027
  • Spring break: Monday, March 15 through Friday, March 19, 2027
  • Last day of school: Thursday, May 27, 2027
  • Allen High School graduation: Friday, May 28, 2027

The board chose a Thursday start date based on community survey results recommending a midweek opening. Graduation was set for the day after the last class so out-of-town families have time to travel to Allen.

Lunch and dress code

Daily menus for each campus are available on the district website or through the MealViewer app. Families with students who have dietary needs can email their school. Eligible families can apply for free or reduced-price meals through the district's online application.

The districtwide dress code is outlined in the student handbook, available on the district website. Families should check for an updated 2026-27 version as the school year approaches.