Back to School Special

Every summer, our faculty take a much needed break, while our hourly staff continue working through the summer months. However, one thing remains the same for all—we look forward to the start of each new school year when we get to see our returning students and meet new ones. The start of our 25/26 academic year is no exception. We have about equal numbers for returning and new students. Praise God!

We are already starting out second week of school, so routines and schedules are settling, as are our students and staff. However, last week was filled with many engaging activities that promoted team building and breaking the ice as students met each other or reconnected with old friends.

• On Sunday (8/10), staff assisted parents and students during registration day.
  On Monday (8/11), staff were introduced to students before all engaged in the traditional “handshake” icebreaker.
  On Tuesday (8/12), students learned about area boundaries through a Rules-based activity.
  On Wednesday (8/13), students participated in a toilet paper activity that was “All About You” before enjoying a schoolwide picnic and water play. This included students witnessing our new principal participate in the slip-and-slide, which brought a huge smile to several students’ faces!
  On Thursday (8/14), students and teachers joined forces to be the first team to reach the finish line in the “Shoe Scramble”.
  On Friday (8/15), students teamed up together for the “Island Hop” game in the gym.

All in all, despite the normal bumps and confusion that can come with learning class and school schedules, students and staff enjoy the first week of school because it gives all a chance to get to know each other and to become familiar with each other’s personalities. It is an opportunity for setting a foundation of trust and support between staff and students, and showing our new students that HIS is a safe place to learn, grow, and thrive.