I had an amazing first day of school. After all these years, I still get excited for the start of a new school year. Even though my children have been out of the house for three years, my wife still had to take a First Day of School photo—of me. Those First Day photos were definitely much better when my children were in them! I was also busy taking photos as I visited schools throughout the division today. I shared many of the pictures on Twitter and highlighted the great start we had in each of our buildings.
Windsor High
School was particularly creative with the “Unfirst Day of School.” Students were
greeted by teachers lining the front walkway, and students entered the school through
a beautiful archway of blue and gold balloons.
The unique experience didn’t end there.
A traditional first day back for
a high school students would include going to each class, getting a course
syllabus, going over routines and procedures.
But the “Unfirst Day” was different.
Students were able to meet all their teachers for both first and second
semester. Time was set-aside for introductions
between teachers and students, and relationship building sessions for the class.
During the Academic Enrichment Period, students unpacked the new Isle of Wight
County Schools’ GRIT focus document. GRIT stands for Gumption, Resilience,
Integrity, Tenacity, all characteristics we want our students to possess. Sharing the qualities of GRIT with students
today emphasized the importance we are placing on helping them to develop a
growth mindset.
Next, all
students went through a rotation which included lunch, expectations for the
year, a meeting with the new WHS Principal and Assistant Principal, and an
information meeting with Guidance. Then the “Unfirst Day of School” ended with
an Academic Pep Rally, honoring students with all A’s, perfect attendance, and
seniors who will be receiving an Academic Jacket later this month.
Far from a
traditional first day of school, students understood by the end of the day that
relationships are important and that they have some very special people at
Windsor High School that are advocates for their success. Hats off to new administrators
Mrs. Laura Sullivan (Principal), Mr. Zach Haney (Assistant Principal), and all
the educators and staff that make Windsor High School so unique!!!
I hope the
first day went well for you and your family.
My next blog will highlight the excitement of the first week in all of
our schools, so stay tuned!
