The start of the school year is here for most Tampa Bay residents. We've created a handy guide so you and your family can make a stress-free transition from the summer months into the academic year.School districts start times Citrus County First day of school: Monday, Aug. 10 For bell times, check your student's individual school website DeSoto County First day of school: Monday, Aug. 10 For bell times, check your student's individual school website Hardee County First day of school: Tuesday, Aug. 11 For bell times, check your student's individual school website Hernando County First day of school: Tuesday, Aug. 11 Bell times Highlands County First day of school: Tuesday, Aug. 11 For bell times, check your student's individual school website Hillsborough County First day of school: Monday, Aug. 10 Bell times Manatee County First day of school: Monday, Aug. 10 For bell times, check your student's individual school website Pasco County First day of school: Thursday, Aug. 13 Bell times Pinellas County First day of school: Tuesday, Aug. 11 Bell times Polk County First day of school: Tuesday, Aug. 11 For bell times, check your student's individual school website Sarasota County First day of school: Monday, Aug. 10 For bell times, check your student's individual school website The Florida Back-to-School sales tax holiday began on July 20 and runs until Aug. 20. During that time, select items will be exempt from state sales tax. Items can be purchased in-store or from online retailers with no sales tax.For more tips and tricks, check our back-to-school section. ...read more read less