Your Richmond Back-to-School Guide

BY KELSEY HEINTZ

The first day back for Richmond Public Schools is August 18, and Virginia’s 3-Day Sales Tax Holiday starts Friday, August 1, at 12:01 am, and ends Sunday, August 3, at 11:59 pm. Here are a few local ways to get more bang for your back-to-school buck — plus some other resources to bookmark.

---

Image Source: @laurar1vera via Unsplash

Supplies

Paper Plus

Whether you need elevated notepads, writing utensils, or a little something more, look to Paper Plus. The spot has been in business since the ‘70s and can surely add a little zhuzh to the kiddos’ supply stash.

Location: 5804 Grove Ave (The West End)
>> Learn more <<

The Supply Room

If you need more of your basics and classics, The Supply Room has you covered. The spot is the largest independent office furniture and supplies dealer in the state, and while they have plenty to offer in bulk, you can also order pencils, paper, folders, and then some to stock up for the upcoming year.

Location: 14140 Washington Hwy (Ashland)
>> Learn more <<

BTW: If you’re in a position to donate supplies to other Richmonders, too, here are a few options to consider:

• HopeFor Learning

• Scrap Creative Reuse

• United Way: Greater Richmond & Petersburg

---

Image Source: Little Nomad

Fits

Ashby

When you’re looking for a more sustainable alternative to traditional retail, Ashby offers just that. The Carytown staple gives you “recycled fashion,” from tops and bottoms to shoes and then some.

Location: 3010 W Cary St (Carytown)
>> Learn more <<

Little Nomad

Whether you want to add some Richmond-specific flare to your fam’s wardrobe or simply just want some extremely stylish threads for the kids to do their learning in, Little Nomad has it. Online here, you can find all kinds of goodies for any age.

Location: Online only
>> Learn more <<

---

Image Source: Tiny Textures Salon

Hairdos

Pigtails & Crewcuts

This hair salon does it all and is especially great for kids. It’s neurodivergent-friendly, with a staff trained in assisting kids who don’t always like to sit still, plus little ones can keep their eyes on a flick to pass the time during their appointments, too. 

Location: 1601 Willow Lawn Dr #835 (Willow Lawn)
>> Learn more <<

Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids

Here, your crew is treated to fun styling chairs, Bluey eps (or their show of choice), video games, the option for a “mini-cure,” and plenty more. Personally, we’ve had a stellar experience with Marjorie, but there are quite a few stylists available to offer your group great haircuts.

Location: 4300 Pouncey Tract Rd (Glen Allen)
>> Learn more <<

Tiny Textures Salon

Tiny Textures Salon is all about providing a fun and comfortable hair experience for littles with all hair types. In their own words, “Our team of stylists offer fully inclusive styling to meet the needs of each child, while building up their self esteem and self confidence, in an environment they can call their own.” Book an appointment at the cute and colorful space, and prepare to have an excellent pampering sesh.

Location: 253 Stonebridge Plaza Ave (Midlothian)
>> Learn more <<

---

Image Source: Triangle Rock Club

After-school programs

Weinstein JCC: Kids’ Place

Weinstein JCC’s after-school option offers enriching activities, quiet time for homework, and more for kindergarteners to fifth graders. Kiddos can enjoy a teaching kitchen, various sports, creative outlets, swimming, and much more here.

Location: 5403 Monument Ave (Willow Lawn)
>> Learn more <<

Rise After School

Rise Richmond’s after-school program gives grades K through 8 a window to get homework help, gain spiritual development, build new skills, and have recreational time to recharge after the school day. The org also partners with A to B Kid Shuttle for student transpo.

Location: Varies
>> Learn more <<

Triangle Rock Club: First Assents

When you’re looking for something a little less traditional, First Assents at Triangle Rock Club gives kids the chance to boulder and climb around while building confidence and problem-solving skills. And if you want your youngsters to give it a test-run first, the gym offers a free trial session to all newcomers.

Location: 4700 Thalbro St (Libbie Mill)
>> Learn more <<

---

Image Source: Tutoring Club of Glen Allen

Tutoring services

Brainfuse

Brainfuse is Richmond Public Library’s online resource for providing free eLearning and tutoring services for students of all ages. With this platform, your kids can find help with math, reading, writing, and lots more.

Location: Online only
>> Learn more <<

Newtowne Tutoring Project

This student-led, student-organized program comes to us from Maggie L. Walker Governor’s School. The service club supports elementary and middle school kiddos with their homework and study tips, and creates a mentorship relationship between older and younger students, too.

Location: 1000 N Lombardy St (Newtowne West)
>> Learn more <<

Tutoring Clubs of Glen Allen & Midlothian

While Tutoring Club is nationally recognized, its two Richmond-area locations are locally-owned, offering young learners customized game plans from the very beginnings of math and reading to advanced-placement high school courses and college admissions.

Location: 11219-A Nuckols Rd A (Glen Allen) and 2423 Colony Crossing Pl (Midlothian)
>> Learn more here and here <<

---

Looking for more?: