Back-to-School Traditions Across the US

The beginning of a new school year brings about various traditions and emotions across the country. As students return to classrooms, schools find unique ways to welcome them back.

Los Angeles, California

At Micheltorena Street Elementary in Los Angeles, Principal Nichole Sakellarion focuses on easing kindergarteners into their new environment. She established a tradition to welcome them a day early. This early welcome includes pairing the new students with fifth-grade mentors called ‘toolbox coaches.’ These coaches guide the kindergarteners on their first day and throughout the year, helping them manage emotions like nervousness or sadness.

Gerald Gomez-Reina, a fifth grader, carries ‘Rocket the Raccoon,’ his stuffed animal, to comfort anxious students. As the young students navigate their new surroundings, tears are more common among parents than the kids. The program aims to provide a smooth transition for newcomers.

Edmond, Oklahoma

In Edmond, Oklahoma, families participate in a ‘bike bus’ to start their school year at Will Rogers Elementary. This initiative encourages students and parents to ride bikes to school together. It not only offers an alternative to the school bus or car rides but fosters community spirit. The bike bus takes place once a week.

Students like Hayden and Owen Raupe enjoy this method, bypassing the long lines of cars. Riding together strengthens bonds among students and provides a healthy start to the day.

Beaverton, Oregon

Beaverton High School near Portland opens its doors with a brand-new building. The transition features modern amenities like adjustable lighting in classrooms for sensory needs, and teachers work to create a warm atmosphere. The school’s long-standing tradition of ringing its 110-year-old bell continues, signaling the official start of the school year.

Leah Baird, a special education teacher, appreciates the new facility’s benefits, such as increased natural light and visual markers like a turtle mosaic to guide students.

Charles City County, Virginia

In Virginia, Charles City Elementary welcomes children with a red carpet. Teachers and staff host a ‘boo-hoo breakfast’ for parents of young students to acknowledge the emotional day. Preschool teacher Kelly Orrell reads ‘The Kissing Hand’ to her students to comfort those anxious about starting school.

Parents like Jovan Howard find the event reassuring as they navigate sending their children off to school for the first time.