There’s something special about the first day of school. The smiles. The hugs. The laughter. The high fives. All were in abundance as 927 students in grades PS-12 greeted friends, teachers, staff, and coaches on the first day of Heritage Hall’s 51st year of operation. 

Joining Lower School faculty and staff curbside during carpool to welcome our youngest Chargers was Head of Lower School Betsy Horn. “I love greeting students on the first day of school. I love their energy, their enthusiasm, their smiles, and their hugs,” she said.

In the Middle School, Mrs. Harris was quick to welcome students with a broad smile and a cheerful “hello” as they made their way to their lockers and advisory classrooms before heading to the Howard Theatre for the opening day assembly.

Also there to greet students was Head of Middle School Ron Allie, who stated, “We are excited to once again have students filling our classrooms and hallways with energy and an enthusiasm for learning.”

Per tradition, senior peer leaders treated students to donuts and roses as they entered the Upper School. 

New this year in the Upper School is a rotating daily schedule that meets a strategic and prioritized list of educational goals essential to a thriving, learning community. “I look forward to seeing the positive effects it has on both students and faculty,” commented Head of Upper School Keith Cassell.

This morning, Lower School students and faculty closed out the first week of school in the best way possible, singing and dancing their way through the first Charger Shine assembly of the year.

Here’s to a happy and successful school year, Chargers!