Starting Strong: Building Habits for a Successful Year

The first week of the 2026–2027 school year is behind us! It was great to have students back in our classrooms, hear activity in the hallways, and see our campus once again doing what it was built to do, serve students.

As we enter our second week, some of the excitement and nervousness that comes with the first day begins to settle and the routines of the school year start taking shape. That makes this an especially important time to establish the habits that will help students be successful throughout the year.

A successful school year isn’t built during the final weeks of May. It’s built one ordinary day at a time, beginning in September.

One of the most important habits is simply showing up. We talked frequently about attendance last year and throughout the summer, and you’ll continue hearing about it this year. Regular attendance gives students access not only to classroom instruction but also to relationships, conversations, activities, and experiences that are difficult to recreate after an absence. Starting the year with the expectation that students attend school every day they are healthy enough to do so helps establish that habit early.

Sleep and morning routines matter as well. After a long summer, it can take some time for everyone’s internal clock to adjust. Consistent bedtimes and wake-up times, preparing clothes and backpacks the night before, and allowing enough time in the morning can make a noticeable difference in how students begin their day.

Another important habit is talking about school at home. Instead of the traditional “How was school?” which often earns the equally traditional response of “Fine,” try asking something more specific: What was the most interesting thing you learned today? Who did you work with? What made you laugh? What was difficult? What are you looking forward to tomorrow?

Those conversations tell students that what happens at school matters and can also help families identify successes or concerns early.

We also encourage every student to find a way to belong. That may be through athletics, music, leadership, a club, an activity, or simply developing a strong connection with a teacher or group of friends. Students who feel connected to their school have another reason to look forward to coming through our doors each morning.

Perhaps the most important habit we can establish, however, is asking for help early.

Students will encounter challenges this year. Whether it’s a difficult math concept, a missing assignment, a disagreement with a friend, or simply feeling overwhelmed, those challenges don’t have to become larger problems. We have teachers, educational assistants, administrators, and many others ready to help. Families shouldn’t hesitate to reach out either. Early communication between home and school gives us the best opportunity to work together.

Finally, this is a great time for students and families to set a couple of simple goals for the year. They don’t need to be complicated. Maybe it’s improving attendance, reading more often, earning a particular grade, joining an activity, making a new friend, or becoming more organized. A clear, achievable goal gives students something they can work toward and celebrate.

Our Graduate Portrait says McKenzie students will become critical thinkers, effective communicators, and responsible citizens. Those aren’t skills students suddenly acquire at graduation. They develop through thousands of small choices and experiences along the way.

That’s why these early weeks matter.

The excitement of the first day may be behind us, but the opportunity of a new school year is just beginning. Thank you to our families, staff, and community for helping us get off to a strong start.

Now let’s turn that strong start into a great year.