Whether you’re skipping to first grade with a Jonas Brothers lunch box or reminiscing about the Wonder Woman pail you toted back in the day, September always has a fun, back-to-school vibe. In this spirit, we’ve peered into the heavens to see what “lessons” early September’s planets have in store. Here’s your cosmic curriculum and star-powered syllabus:

LESSON 1
September 1-12: Mercury retrograde
Course Description: Mercury retrograde is a three-week cycle that falls three or four times a year, wreaking havoc on technology, communication and travel. Homework: Back up your computers, address books and important data. Think twice before e-mailing gossip or racy material around the office; it could end up in the wrong hands. Reconnect with old friends and colleagues. Pack a spare tire and flashers for Labor Day road trips; double-check for passports and tickets if flying. Learn more about it.

LESSON 2
September 8: Virgo New Moon
Course Description: New moons mark new beginnings. Making a fresh start at a new moon sets your goals off on a six-month power cycle. Homework: Virgo is the sign of health, fitness and organization. Join a gym at a special introductory rate. Search for healthy recipes using fall’s new bounty of produce, like sweet potatoes and squash. Spruce up your office with pretty boxes and file folders printed with fleur-de-lis patterns and cheerful colors.

LESSON 3
September 9: Jupiter enters Pisces
Course Description: The planet of luck and expansion backs into mystical, creative Pisces until January 2011.
Homework: Use your imagination! You’ve been busy doing, doing, doing all summer, leaving little time to dream and relax. Sign up for art, music or dance class. Start a yoga practice, a book club or a potluck night with friends. Volunteer for a charitable cause.

LESSON 4
September 14: Pluto goes direct
Course Description: Pluto is the planet of transformation. Since April, it’s been “retrograde” (moving backward) in Capricorn, slowing down change. Today, Pluto moves into “direct” (forward) motion, pushing us to examine our goals and long-term plans.
Homework: Dig up those New Year’s resolutions and recommit. What can you achieve by the end of 2010 that would fulfill you on a soul level? Which habits, vices and addictions can you give up? It’s never too late to make a change!