Exactly. It's neither my student's problem, nor our household's. We'd done our supplies shopping a week ago or more. If you expect students to have anything specific from a list sent out >7pm the night before school starts, you're gonna have a bad time.
There’s a lot of growing up to do in the jump from pre-k to kindergarten. Plus, new school and no preexisting friends. It’s been a wild ride.
A little extra support for our young ones can go a long way.
Pro-tip: If a kid is getting promoted up to a different school (K, Middle, or HS), the previous summer, take them over to the new school and kick or toss the ball, bike around, or have a picnic. It's unlikely the buildings will be open, but in most public schools, the outside areas often are.
The first week in the new school will be a breeze vs kids who look like they're ready to throw up.
This also works if moving to a different home, city, state, or country. Spend as much time around and near the school before the first day, just playing.