Shorter days and cooler nights are the early indications that summer is winding down. Parents and students are in back to school mode with some systems opening next week.

For the first time in many years, Baltimore City Public Schools are not frantically recruiting teachers because they are fully staffed. Baltimore County Public Schools has completed training for new principals and Anne Arundel County has announced staggered start dates.

Parents are being reminded of dress code policies, the requirement for immunizations and school supply lists to provide students the tools they need to succeed.

Financial analysts say Americans will spend about $20 billion preparing for back to school. Local jurisdictions have trained teachers and staff, cleaned and renovated buildings and reviewed and approved curriculums.

With education being the most important thing children have to do in their young lives, it is important that they arrive focused and ready to learn.

Parents, administrators and political leaders can invest in their education, but it is imperative that students with proper adult guidance, take advantage of the wonderful opportunity to get the best education possible. Great schools and great students are the true American dream.