By Guest Columnist Robin Sanders, Principal, Pelahatchie Elementary School
The quiet of summer is officially winding down as the familiar rhythm of yellow buses, morning traffic, and packed backpacks prepares to return to Pelahatchie Elementary. With the first day of school officially set for Thursday, July 30th, local families, teachers, and administrators are putting the final touches on preparations for the 2026–2027 school year. Reminder: Registration codes will be emailed to returning students July 10th. If you have a new student that needs to register, come by the school before school begins. Students will not be placed on class roles until registration is complete and residency is approved.
A Focus on Routine and Mental Wellness
While fresh school supplies bring plenty of excitement, experts note that the psychological shift from open summer days to structured school nights can be tough on kids. Transitioning from the relaxed freedom of summer back into a school routine can be a jarring shift for elementary minds and bodies. Shifting into “school mode” is a gradual process that should start well before the first bell rings.
The biggest hurdle for elementary students often isn’t the academics; it’s the sudden shift in structure and stamina. In June and July, they can graze on snacks and play whenever they want. By late July, they have to navigate a timed schedule, sit at desks, and practice active listening.
To combat back-to-school anxiety, educators encourage starting the transition early. Families are advised to pull bedtime back by 15 minutes each night leading up to the first day, ensuring children are well-rested, confident, and ready to learn.
Community Spirit and Getting Involved
To help students ease those first-day jitters, Pelahatchie ES is hosting a Meet the Teacher event on Tuesday, July 28th. To accommodate varying family schedules, the school has opened two dedicated time slots for families to tour classrooms and connect with staff:
● Morning Session: 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM
● Afternoon Session: 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM
As the countdown ticks away, teachers are already back in their classrooms—arranging furniture, decorating vibrant bulletin boards, and planning engaging lessons for the start of school.
For the staff at Pelahatchie ES, every year feels like a fresh start. The hallways may be quiet now, but the team is more than ready to welcome students back. We’ve deeply missed the energy of the kids, and we can’t wait to see what they accomplish this year.
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