SOUTH DEERFIELD — As summer draws to a close, the doors opened at Frontier Regional School and Deerfield Elementary School on Tuesday, marking the start of a new school year.
“It feels awesome,” Frontier Regional School Principal George Lanides said about the return to school as middle and high schoolers rushed behind him to make it to their first class before the bell rang.
High schooler Christopher Suprise said he is looking forward to writing essays again in English class.
“I enjoy my classes,” he said simply.
Down the road at Deerfield Elementary School, faculty and staff members greeted students and parents with a tropical theme, officially called “Sea Our Community of Kindness in Action,” according to Principal Tina Gemme. Three faculty members, in inflatable sun and fruit costumes, swayed to Katy Perry and Taylor Swift songs while others handed out leis.
Gemme said the school picks themes for every first and last day of school to channel their values of belonging, love and kindness.
“It brings us together,” Gemme said. “The school is not a school without kids, community and family.” Plus, she added, “We like to have fun!”
Rowan Clover-Brown of Deerfield started third grade on Tuesday. With a yellow lei around his neck, he said, “I’m excited to do the harder math.”
With her return to school, Piper Monette stepped into third grade and her four favorite subjects: gym, math, art and recess.
“I’m trying not to cry,” said Piper’s mother, Rachel Monette of Deerfield. “I’m proud of her.”
Wiping away a tear, she adjusted her sunglasses and added with a laugh, “Sunglasses are important.”
Sixth grader Kamryn Beck of Deerfield said she is excited to see her friends and embark on field trips with Nature’s Classroom, a nonprofit dedicated to expanding students’ outdoor learning.
Library and technology teacher Denise Dejnak has greeted students on the first day for 30 years. She said having a theme creates a warm, upbeat welcome for students.
“We want to make everyone feel like they belong,” Dejnak said before asking a young student, “Bracelet or necklace?”
Deerfield resident Carol Kelly’s son started his first day of kindergarten on Tuesday. Looking at the tropical costumes, bubble machine and leis, she said, “This makes me wish I was in kindergarten!”