School is In: Edmonson County Schools Kick Off 25-26 Year on Foggy Morn

South Edmonson Principal Josh Long greets students off the bus on the first day of the 2025-26 school year.

Darren Doyle, story and photos:
Summer break has come and gone and despite the foggy start, Edmonson County Schools are back in session as the first day of school for the 25-26 school year was today.

Principals for all five county schools greeted students this morning from buses, drop offs, and student drivers. Each principal and Superintendent Brian Alexander shared some of their experiences with the Edmonson Voice on the first day for students.

South Edmonson Principal Josh Long said there is nothing better than seeing a kid's excitement on the first day of school.

"The hallways were full of smiles and laughter and kids are already working hard in their rooms on beginning-of-the-year activities and telling the teachers about their summer break," he said. "We started something new this year that we are really excited about. Retired teachers were offered a chance to come back today and help out in a classroom. This gives them a chance to experience the thrill of a first day again and gives our new teachers a little help on the first day. Their day will end with a lunch sponsored by our PTO to give them a chance to catch up with each other. It's a great day to be a Bulldog!"

Edmonson County school buses pull out of South Edmonson Elementary on the first day of the 25-26 school year.

Kyrock Principal Brandy Meredith said she was thrilled to welcome students, families, and staff to another exciting school year.

"We believe that education is a partnership between school, home, and community, and we are grateful for the continued support of our families and neighbors," she added. "Whether you are a returning Blackhawk or joining us for the first time, we invite you to be actively involved in your child’s learning journey. Together, we can make this year one of the best yet."

Edmonson County 5/6 Center Principal Charla Caudill described their first day as "wonderful."

'We were thrilled to welcome our new 5th graders and reconnect with our returning 6th graders," said Caudill. "The energy in our classrooms was amazing, and both students and teachers had a fantastic start to the year. We can’t wait to see all the great things our Wildcats will achieve!"

ECMS Principal Ben Grey said he woke this morning to an email from one of 8th grade students from last year who thanked Mr. Grey for being there for him.

"It’s a good reminder how far showing these students a little bit of love, kindness and patience will go with them," he said.  

"Overall, today was a great day and I was excited to be back. Our staff has been busy the last several days getting the building and classrooms prepped. I’m excited for the new school year and always look forward to meeting our new students and building those relationships. Obviously we have a strong focus on academics, but we still prioritize work ethic and being an overall good person here at ECMS," Grey said.

Edmonson County High School Principal Jonathan Williams said today was a great first day of school.

"It's always exciting to start a new school year," Williams told the Edmonson Voice. "Our kids seemed to enjoy their classes, were excited to see their friends and mostly stayed awake," he joked.  "We look forward to a great 25-26 school year."

Superintendent Alexander said he felt like things got off to a great start, countywide.

"This morning went very smooth.  There is a great feeling when you walk through our schools of positive energy.  It's a great time to be a part of Edmonson County Schools," Alexander said.

The Edmonson County Schools calendar is always available on the Edmonson Voice and you can find it here.