A school bus waits for traffic in Gardnerville on Thursday afternoon as construction on Highway 395 slowly comes to an end.
Photo by Kurt Hildebrand.
Schools will open Monday for the 2024-2025 school year in Douglas County under the motto “Connected,” according to new Superintendent Frankie Alvarado.
In his welcome letter to the Douglas County School District, Alvarado says the theme highlights the importance of developing relationships outside the school environment.
“Being connected means pursuing our interests and passions, using technology effectively and taking action in ways that enable us to succeed and contribute to our community,” he said.
Back-to-School Ice Cream Parties the week before school started were a time when teachers, staff, students and families were eager to connect and start the school year.
“It’s a chance to network before the school year starts,” says Ashley Nilssen, a third-grade teacher at Piñon Hills Elementary School.
EPIC teaching coach Heather Hoyle said it was an inspiration for the school year.
“We’re able to connect with students and families and that helps set the tone for the coming year,” she said. “Everyone seems excited and looking forward to another year.”
In his letter, Alvarado said his goal is to build trusting relationships with students, families and all members of the district community through open communication and collaboration.
“Our district is focused on connecting with students and families to build a network of support that uses valid and reliable data to make informed decisions and improve all student programs,” Alvarado said. “I am committed to ensuring our students have access to the resources and opportunities they need to succeed academically and personally. Our partnership with parents will impact student success.”
Ashli Alexander, a fifth-grade teacher at Piñon Hills Elementary School, said community and connection start in the classroom.
“We want students to have fun, be engaged and form a class community,” said Alexander. “The class family is the key to success.”
Some familiar faces will greet students in new roles Monday, including Jeannie Dwyer as human resources director, Amy Carter as principal of Pau-Wa-Lu Middle School and Andrew Fromdahl as principal of Minden Elementary School.
The first day of school begins for all classes on Monday. Kindergarten performances take place on Monday and Tuesday. Kindergarten officially begins on Wednesday.
Visit https://www.dcsd.net/news-calendars/newsletter to learn everything you need to know about the upcoming school year.
Bus schedules can be found at https://www.dcsd.net/departments/transportation
“As we look ahead to the first day of school and beyond, I am confident we will make this year an unforgettable experience,” Alvarado said.
Alvarado was hired as superintendent in July. Visit https://www.dcsd.net to read his full welcome letter.
