Classes began Tuesday at several area schools, and students at Worthington's Prairie Elementary are back in school on Thursday. It's an exciting time of year for students, parents, teachers and administrators, with the first day of school representing a fresh start of sorts for all.
For students of all grade levels, the start of a new school year brings renewed opportunities for success. Students who have excelled in the past -- as well as those who may not have done as well -- all have a clean slate. It's up to them to dedicate themselves to working hard and being the best pupils they can be.
And that's where parents can play a critical role. Students whose parents or guardians take an active interest in their children's school and education consistently have a far greater chance of succeeding, compared to youths who don't have such support. The start of a new year affords parents the opportunity to participate more in their child's school endeavors, whether they be academic, extra-curricular or both.
For teachers, a new school year offers a chance to perhaps a bring a fresh approach to a curriculum, or a new way of connecting with that hard-to-reach student. For administrators, there are different possibilities, too -- Worthington, for instance, has about 20 new staff this fall, and Superintendent John Landgaard is enthusiastic about this influx of personnel.
We encourage everyone involved with our local school districts -- in fact, each of our entire communities -- to help in their own way to make this 2006-2007 school year a great one.
