Fresh backpacks, new books, and a renewed sense of how to use a school lock for lockers -- that was the scene at yesterday's barbecue at the Estevan Comprehensive School, welcoming new and returning students for a new year.
"This is one of the most exciting nights of the academic year at ECS. It's so awesome to welcome our new and returning students. Our school Community council [was] outside barbecuing up some hot dogs and [giving] free water. [It was] just great to reconnect with the school community and get the academic year going," shared Principal James Jones.
Much of the focus of the event was on getting new, incoming grade nine students situated with their schedules. Faculty was also present to help them navigate through the school and assist students using a locker for the first time. Tammy Podovinikoff, a teacher at the high school, shared that she's always excited for new students to arrive at ECS.
"I love this night because the grade nines are also very excited. Like, they're nervous, but it's great to see lots of new faces coming in the building. I think they are saying that they're not scared, but they secretly are. We'll see on Tuesday. They always have a 'deer in the headlights look', so we'll look for that in the hallway and help them along the way," she shared.
"Well, it's great to get everyone together and getting everyone used to the school and the environment because well, you know, it's scary coming to a new school and it's big. We have one of the biggest schools in the province," noted Student Representative Council co-president and grade 12 student Prysm Gooding.
"I think it's just it's amazing how everyone actually comes and get to see new people and new faces because you're not with just the same 25 people for the next [four] years of your life."
Aspen Mayouk is a grade nine student who will be starting next week. She shared that she's "maybe, just a little" nervous about the first day of classes and meeting new people. "I'm excited to start high school. I'm especially excited to do track," she added.
"There's an excitement and an energy in the building tonight and we want to take that excitement and enthusiasm and we're looking forward to having a great academic year ahead," Jones expressed
The first day of school is slated for Tuesday, September 3.