Washingtonville Central School District welcomes back students for a new school year

The first day of school on Thursday marked a fresh start for students, teachers and families across the district. From Pre-K to high school, teachers and staff greeted students with smiles as they entered the buildings, ready to begin another year of discovery, opportunity and achievement.

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At Round Hill Elementary, excitement was in the air as some of the district’s newest Wizards – kindergartners – stepped off the bus for their very first day. Physical education teachers Matt Donaldson and Chris Sacli were among those welcoming students at the door.

“It’s so exciting to be back,” Mr. Donaldson said. “We’ve got a lot of kindergartners, so it’s good to see new faces and put names to them.”

“We’re looking forward to a fresh start and some fun get-to-know-you games to help the kids settle in,” Mr. Sacli added.

Music teacher Alex Garcia helped set a joyful tone to the morning by strumming his ukulele as students made their way to class. 

“The best part is welcoming the students back,” he said. “I always play my ukulele to get them amped up for the day. “I especially love seeing the kindergartners because they don’t know what to expect. I want to get them excited for the school year.”

Families felt the excitement, too. Jason Cortez said his son, Angel, a new kindergartner, was eager to start exploring. 

“He’s looking forward to making new friends and exploring the area,” Mr. Cortez said. “We're explorers. We love to travel and find things, so he can't wait to see what he will discover at Round Hill.”

Across the district, students were buzzing about what they are most looking forward to this year. 

At Little Britain Elementary School, fifth-grader Savannah Joseph said she is excited for the beginning of school because she wants to meet up with her friends and join the school drama club.  

"My dream passion is to be an actor," she said.

Fellow fifth-grader Lorenzo Cruz is looking forward to arts classes where he will draw, paint and bring his works to life in 3-dimensional objects. 

"We can make anything we want using our own imagination," he said. He also wants to play the trumpet this year. "My goal is to play in band and to get a good education," he said.

Fourth-grader Allison Peralta, from Round Hill, said her sights are set on science this year.

“I like school because I love learning,” she said, adding that she can’t wait to tackle all the new science projects ahead.

Siblings Alana Warner, a fifth-grader, and Jaxson Villalba, a second-grader, are both eager for their first Washingtonville experience at Round Hill. 

“I’m excited because this is our first year here,” Alana said. “I met one of my teachers already, and I’m looking forward to lunch – and recess.”

Jaxson agreed.

“Lunch and recess all the way,” he nodded.

Teachers also echoed students’ excitement. At Little Britain, first grade teacher Josephine Curto described the unique energy that comes with new beginnings.

“First grade is such a magical journey, and the very first day is just the beginning,” she said. “The wonder in those small, everyday moments that lead to big growth is what makes it so special to be a part of!”

Little Britain Principal Dr. Christopher Barrie also reflected on the start of another school year with gratitude and optimism.

"Here's to the best 180 days of opportunities to impact kids' lives for the better," he said. "We're excited. We have Pre-K this year. We have made so many improvements to the building. Parents and teachers are excited. We have brand new programs for ELA and math that will make our students continue to thrive. So many good things are happening in this district."

Along with welcoming new students, Washingtonville is also celebrating new staff this year, including Robyn Boardman, who is stepping in as the new principal of Washingtonville High School.

“It was a magical first day at Washingtonville High School. Students were excited to be here, adding life back into the building!” Ms. Boardman said. “As I begin my first year as principal, I’m excited to join a school community that’s full of energy, talent and potential!”

With the first day complete, Washingtonville Central School District now looks ahead to a year filled with learning, growth and new opportunities for students to thrive.

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