CHUFSD Students Return to School Full of Spirit and Expectations for What School Can Be this Coming Year

The first day of school always has a special kind of energy and excitement. It’s not just about getting to see your friends again after the summer, the carefully curated first day of school outfit, the perfect backpack, or finally getting to play that fall sport. It’s the anticipation of possibility and what the year will bring. 

As kindergarteners entered CET for the first time as students, they were greeted by first - fourth graders and staff who lined the hallway leading to the kindergarten wing. While cheering and giving high fives, the older students gave the warmest of welcomes to the future class of 2037. Feeling the anticipation of the day, friends Elaine and Rafael are in total agreement about what excites them most about their first day at CET. “I am looking forward to playing on the playground,” said Rafael. “I am also excited about the playground!” exclaimed Elaine. 

CET fourth graders in Ms. Strattner’s class were thrilled whenever a visitor came into the classroom. Matilde, seated closest to the door, was the official greeter, who directed them to a spinning wheel placed in the front of the room. “Spin the wheel, and if you land on the right spot, you get to pick out a piece of candy,” she said. With each guest and each spin, the students earnestly wished for a win. The fourth graders were abuzz in the classroom, talking about being the oldest students in the school now and what they were hoping for in the coming year. “I want to have a lot of fun this year,” said Matilde. Her classmate Donald replied, “I hope for everything.”

Although the middle school years are known for being those during which students are reticent to show much emotion or individuality, PVC students seemed to defy that stereotype. Students eagerly greeted and embraced one another as they stepped off the bus and walked toward the orange and black balloon arch. While some admitted to being tired, one student was eager to tell Principal Plotkin, “I’m ready to learn.”

The energy at CHHS was equally palpable. As students maneuvered through the halls after their first class, one saw a friend and said, “What an amazing first period!”  Freshman students in a classroom talked excitedly about the sports opportunities, while others took a broader view and said they were looking forward to a fun first year of high school. To maintain the excitement and help build community across grades, the high school hosted a BBQ for all students. The music pumped as they soaked in the late summer day and enjoyed burgers, hot dogs, corn, and watermelon.  

Of course, a new school year means a new graduating class. Class of 2025 members Isabelle, Elaina, and Jocelyn - who enjoyed a free period outside in the sun - expressed a more nuanced feeling about their senior status. “It’s a little scary,” said Elaina. “And it also feels really good.”

From K-12th grade, we wish each and every one of our Tigers a wonderful year filled with laughter, curiosity, and success.