Chester Union Free School District kicks off the 2024 - 2025 school year

Glowing faces filled the entrances of both Chester Academy and Chester Elementary School as faculty and staff welcomed back students to kick off the new year on Wednesday, September 4, 2024.  

“The first day of school is always filled with excitement, new beginnings, and endless possibilities. It’s wonderful to see all of our students, faculty, and staff return, ready to start the 2024-2025 school year,” said Superintendent Catherine O’Hara. “I am confident that our CUFSD team, in partnership with our parents, families, and community, will be stronger together, unified in our commitment to support student success.” 

At Chester Elementary, parents waved goodbye to their children as they sent them off. Teachers were stationed at the front of the school to help students find their classrooms and provide reassurances for any nerves they had. Students with younger siblings new to the school also helped them find their way around the building. 

“I’m excited, and I don’t want my mommy to cry,” said Olivia Delapa, a Kindergartener at Chester Elementary School. “I got to ride the bus with my friend Kayden. Kayden was in pre-K with me.” 

Not only are students excited to return to school to see their old friends and make new ones, but they are also looking forward to getting back into the classroom and learning. Fifth-grader Andre Glenn Jr. hopes he can learn more about meteorology. 

“I’m hoping we will do something with meteorology this year,” said Andre. “I want to be a storm chaser.”  

Faculty and staff throughout the District are also optimistic and thrilled about the new school year. Many are enthusiastic about the many opportunities and possibilities that lie ahead. 

“I’m looking forward to starting another marvelous school year and giving our students the chance to grow not only academically, but emotionally as well,” said John Flanagan, Principal of Chester Academy. “My mission this year is to continue to create a safe and supportive environment for all students to thrive in.”  

Chester Academy students swiftly entered their classrooms where they met their teachers and navigated through their new schedule.  

“I feel like I’m excited. I don’t feel nervous at all, but I'm excited to have a little more freedom around the building,” said Izaiah Hayes-Hodge, freshman at Chester Academy. “I’m excited for band, we have a few trips this year.” 

Senior Isabella Batista is looking forward to taking advantage of all the various opportunities the school offers and making the most of her senior year. She is eager to travel internationally before she goes to college.  

“For my first day of school, especially my senior year, I’m pretty excited and honestly not as nervous as I was for other grades,” said Isabella. I feel very relaxed and I feel very set. I’m just excited to see my friends and get my schedule done because I really like having a busy day. I’m excited to start school. I’m really looking forward to prom because I haven’t been to any other proms.” 

The energy, hope and enthusiasm in the air was consistent throughout both schools.  

“The first day of school is such a special day for our students, staff and families,” said Mary Kate Boesch, Principal at Chester Elementary. “I absolutely love to see everyone come back from summer ready to take on the new school year with such energy and optimism. I can’t wait to see all the great things our students and staff will accomplish.”  

Click here to view photos from the first day of school!