Back to School 2022: Superintendent, Principals Discuss First Day of New School Year

South Edmonson staff members greet students as they arrive on the first day of the 2022-23 school year.

Darren Doyle, story and photos:
Classes were back in session for Edmonson County Schools as students all across the county began the 2022-23 school year today.

Today's start was supposed to be several weeks ago; however, due to needed repairs that weren't discovered until a major renovation project was underway this summer at Edmonson County High, that date was changed to today.

We spoke with Superintendent Brian Alexander, in addition to all five principals of county schools today about the first day of school and their thoughts on the upcoming year.

"We have had an outstanding day today at all schools," he said. "The first day of school will always have a couple of hiccups but honestly we really didn't see that today."

"We are all extremely happy to have kids back in our buildings.  We appreciate the understanding of the school community in our delay to start the school year.  We are hoping for a "back to normal" school year this year with a mild winter so we can focus on instruction and learning as we go through this year.   It's just great to have Edmonson County Schools back in session."

Edmonson County school buses prepare to drop off students at school.

Edmonson County High School
ECHS Principal Jonathan Williams described the day as "fun and energetic."

"There was a lot of positive energy flowing in our building among students and staff," he said. "I think that the extended summer break was good for the kids but I believe it also allowed them to be a bit more eager to return.  I'd like to set a positive tone for our school that can be shared with everyone. What we need is a 100% re-dedication to teaching and learning.  We are out of Covid prison and my goal is to be more laser-focused on learning.  I'm excited because we have a very talented staff, more opportunity than our students have ever had, and freedom to educate without restrictions."

Edmonson County Middle School
"First and foremost, our thoughts and prayers go out to the Willis family," said Principal Brandon Prunty. "They have been on our minds this morning as we begin the year.  Levi will be greatly missed by his school family at ECMS."

Mr. Prunty said today he saw a smooth start to the school year were students seemed excited to be at school and together. "The teachers and staff have worked very hard to get ready for the first day of school and everything we'll be doing this year.  We're looking forward to getting back to a regular routine and hope that this can be a year without any interruptions."

"We'll take some time these first few days going over rules and expectations, just to set the tone for the year, then we'll dive into instruction.  We want students to enjoy their middle school experience, but at the same time we expect them to work hard, be respectful to others, and do the right thing.  We're just ready to get back to business at ECMS."

"As always, we ask that parents and guardians contact us at school should any issues arise.  The relationship between school and home is such an important part of student success."

Edmonson County 5/6 Center
"Today was a great day at the Edmonson County 5/6 Center," said new Principal Jarad McReynolds. "Our excellent staff came in with renewed enthusiasm and an eagerness to push our Wildcats to greatness.  Our students had a few nerves but overall were excited and respectful.  This year we want our students to remain engaged and willing to accept any challenge that they encounter.  We are going to celebrate our successes big and small along the way."

"I’m looking forward to a great year at the 5/6 Center," Mr. McReynolds said as he added, "Go Wildcats!"

Hoppy Decker drives an Edmonson County school bus full of students on the first day of school.

South Edmonson Elementary
SEES Principal Josh Long, who returns from a year-long hiatus at another school, said that today is a great day to be a Bulldog.

"This place was full of smiling faces this morning," he said. "Kids are happy and glad to be back. Staff members are having a blast. We are so excited to get the year started."

"We are continuing to focus on increasing student achievement through intentional planning and collaboration. One of our big rocks this year is striving for student growth and pursuing our motto, success for every child, every day."

Kyrock Elementary School
"Everyone was so happy to be back in school this morning, said Kyrock Principal Shaun Stice. "There were a lot of smiles and hugs.  We love our Blackhawks and we look forward to an awesome year that is hopefully clear of distractions."