Principal’s reflections: Unveiling regular rhythms of elementary school life

Administrator’s Corner by Zack Kruger

As an elementary principal and former teacher, I’ve come to recognize the rhythms of the school year as both predictable and bittersweet.

Zack Kruger

August rolls around, buzzing with excitement and anticipation. Kids eagerly pick out their new outfits, eager to make new friends and meet their teacher for the first time. Meanwhile, teachers pour their hearts into preparing their classrooms, creating warm and welcoming environments where students can learn and grow. When those students step into the classroom for the first time, they’re not just names on a list; they’re faces full of potential, waiting to be nurtured.

The beginning of the school year is always a whirlwind of activity, filled with back-to-school excitement and beloved traditions like fall picnics and our annual walkathon. Teachers invest so much time and effort in building relationships with their students, fostering a sense of community within their classrooms. It’s incredible to see these bonds form, not only between students but also between students and staff. What starts as a simple list of names quickly transforms into a tight-knit community, where everyone feels valued and supported.

As we move into spring, we hit our stride. After a refreshing spring break, we enter the home stretch of the school year. It’s a time for reflection, as we look back on how much our students have grown since the beginning of the year.

Spring also brings state testing, giving students a chance to show off their academic achievements.

And as May approaches, we start to feel a sense of both excitement and sadness. Our students are getting ready to move on to the next chapter of their lives, armed with the knowledge and experiences they’ve gained during their time at our school.

But before we say goodbye, we come together as a community to celebrate our achievements. We host picnics, class parties and graduations, honoring the hard work and dedication of our students and staff alike. It’s a time to cherish the memories we’ve made and look forward to the bright futures ahead.

Zack Kruger is principal of Lakeview Elementary School.

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