School Is In: 2023-24 School Year Starts, School and District Administration Discuss First Day

School buses on the first day of school.

Darren Doyle, story and photos:
Buses were back on regular routes this morning all over Edmonson County for the first time in several months as the 2023-24 school year began today in the county school district.

Principals of all five county schools shared their thoughts on the first day, all of which were positive, in addition to Superintendent of Edmonson County Schools Brian Alexander.

"Overall, Edmonson County Schools has had an outstanding day for the first day of the 23-24 school year, said Mr. Alexander. "We're excited to see all of our returning students, as well as our new students who have joined us to start a new school year.  Students seem happy to be back in school."

Edmonson County High School.

Edmonson County High School Principal Jonathan Williams returns for his 4th year in his current role. He described the first day of the school year at the high school as "phenomenal."

"There was great energy from our staff and most of our students were happy to be back," said Williams.  "All of our new staff members seemed to have a great day also. Our leadership team and staff are excited about the growth and opportunities our kids have here!  It’s an exciting time to be an Edmonson County Wildcat!"

Edmonson County Middle School.

Brandon Prunty, Principal at Edmonson County Middle School said ECMS had a great day and the day began on a positive note.

"Our teachers were eager to meet their new students today and we spent much of the day talking about procedures and expectations.  It's going to be a wonderful year." Mr. Prunty said.

"I would like to let parents know that our drop-off and pick-up lines will not be changed because of the construction at the high school.  Parents will still be able to go behind the middle school, through the construction gates, and exit on Houchin Ferry Road."

Edmonson County 5/6 Center.

First-year principal Charla Caudill described the first day back for those at the Edmonson County 5/6 Center as "amazing."

"The students were excited to see their friends and teachers. The teachers were eager to start building new relationships and challenging their students. This is going to be a fantastic year," Mrs. Caudill said.

South Edmonson Elementary School.

Principal of South Edmonson Elementary Josh Long said everyone at SEES had a great first day.

"There is nothing better than seeing the kids excitement as they jump off of the bus and run into school," he said. "Our faculty and staff have worked hard at planning and preparing for another fantastic school year and their hard work paid off today! The hallways were full of smiles and laughter and kids were already working hard in their rooms on beginning of the year activities and telling the teachers and each other about their summer break. The first day is one of the best days of the year and today didn't disappoint. It's a great day to be a Bulldog!"

Kyrock Elementary.

Shaun Stice, principal at Kyrock Elementary, said the Blackhawks got off to a great start today.

"The students came in with smiles and left with smiles which is what we care about the most," Mr. Stice said. "We are very excited about the things we have in store for our students this year.  We are in the process of obtaining  a greenhouse for the students to enjoy more hands-on activities.  We have several fun and educational field trips planned and several guests coming to bring exciting things to our students to enhance learning opportunities." 

Supt. Alexander ended with a thank-you to the parents and guardians of Edmonson County students.

"We want to thank our parents and guardians for entrusting us with their children, Alexander added. "As always, we guide all our decisions on what is best for kids. We're looking forward to a great year."

Fall sports have been underway for a few weeks already. Heat advisories this week have caused teams to cancel some events while rescheduling others. The season home opener for Lady Cat Volleyball is tonight at ECHS beginning at 5:30PM.