Chester Union Free School District welcomes students back to school

As summer comes to a close, the Chester Union Free School District welcomed students on Wednesday morning with warm greetings for the 2025-2026 school year. Optimism filled the air as excitement grew for the new year. Click here to view photos from the first day! 

"The energy of the first day of school is unmatched,” said Superintendent Catherine O’Hara. “It’s a reminder of why we do this work, to see our students step into the year with excitement, curiosity, and confidence. I’m grateful for the dedication of our staff, families, and community as we set the stage for an inspiring year ahead!"

At Chester Elementary School, students eagerly made their way off the bus and into the building. Those with younger siblings helped them get accustomed to the school and showed them their classrooms. Teachers and administrators were also stationed at the school entrance to help students adjust on the first day.

“The first day of school is always one of my favorite days,” said Chester Elementary School Principal Mary Kate Boesch. “It’s such a fresh start, full of possibilities, and I’m so excited to see all that this year will bring for our students, staff, and families.” 

Students are excited for a new school year full of possibilities. Second grader Lillian Berkemeyer is looking forward to learning her times tables and reading more books.

“I feel good,” Lily said when asked about how she feels on the first day. She talked about everything she is excited to learn about this year, including, “To learn how to multiply and read better.”

Students at Chester Academy quickly made their way to their classrooms to get started on their academics this school year. Special education teacher Kerry Lembo is getting her students ready to begin a new novel next week.

“It's been great so far,” said Ms. Lembo. ““I've got some classes returning, so we're able to hit the ground running, and my new classes were going through the movements and the ropes of what it's like to be in high school versus middle school.”

Throughout the day at the academy, students met their new teachers, adjusted to their new routines and learned how to open their lockers. Many are anticipating exploring new opportunities within the school.

“Getting better grades, getting better, and studying more,” said Marysol Yupa Pinos, a freshman at Chester Academy when asked what she is looking forward to this year. “Also getting out of my comfort zone. Like doing more stuff that I usually don't do.”

The first day of school was a great success for students, faculty, administrators and staff, setting a positive and enthusiastic tone to the year.