The beginning of a new school year is filled with excitement, hope, and endless possibilities. It marks a fresh start where students have the opportunity to make new friends, get reacquainted with old friends, set new goals, and discover new interests. Walking through the school doors on the first day brings a sense of anticipation as classrooms are decorated, supplies are organized, and teachers welcome students with caring smiles. Students are excited to participate in clubs, sports, band performances, field trips, and getting decked out for the theme of the student section for those Friday night lights at Grabinski Field. It’s moments like these that make the school year unforgettable.  

There may be a few first day of school jitters, but those feelings are quickly replaced by confidence, as routines are set and friendships begin to blossom.  The new school year also reminds students and teachers that each day is an opportunity to work hard, overcome challenges, and celebrate achievements- no matter how big or small. 

As an educator, there are so many things I look forward to at the start of a new school year. I am excited to meet the new students I will support, helping them be successful in their studies, and look forward to building relationships with them. I also look forward to reconnecting with my coworkers, as I do not see a majority of them over the summer break. All of these thoughts about heading back to school made me wonder what my colleagues and students in the district are looking forward to. I connected with four staff members and four students, from various grade levels, to get their take on what is exciting about being back to school. 

    Wishing all of our Lakers a successful and memorable school year!

“I am looking forward to seeing all of my friends and working with Mrs. Moriarty again!” - Evelyn, 2nd grade 

“Seeing the lists of my students' names always makes me excited to start the new school year! It's so fun to get to know students at the beginning of their middle school journey and witness the growth that takes place over the course of their two years at SLMS. I love figuring out where students are and what they need. Also, I love returning to the routine of the school year refreshed and eager to see new faces!”- Mrs. Brewer, Spring Lake Middle School 

“I’m really excited for this school year because it’s my last year of middle school, and we’ll be the oldest kids in the school. I’m also super excited for middle school swim season to start in October because I love being on the team and competing.” -Claudia, 8th grade 

“The start of a school year always brings a sense of excitement and positive energy. I’m excited to welcome a new group of students and build strong connections, while also supporting returning students. I'm looking forward to having my son in the building with me this year.”- Mrs. Anderson, Spring Lake Middle School 

“I’m excited to go to school, see my teacher, and color and get stickers. I’m excited to be like Booker (her big brother). “ -Blakely, Preschool 

“I am excited to start my 31st year of teaching Social Studies at Spring Lake. I love teaching my students about world social issues, governments, economics, cultures, and history. Seeing them make connections with real-world events and how it impacts us here in Spring Lake and around the world is so rewarding! 
I love teaching them that they can make a difference no matter what age they are. Last month I heard from a previous student I taught over two decades ago. She mentioned what she remembered about my classroom at SLMS and how it impacted her life as an adult. This meant the world to me.” - Mrs. Kuhlman, Spring Lake Middle School