September 3 was the official start to the 2024-2025 school year for Poland Schools.

In the past years, the district started school before Labor Day, but this year they decided to start after. This new move seems like one that is welcomed by students and staff alike.

“I think starting after Labor Day is a good thing, and realistically, I think sports are good, plays are on, bands good everything is normal. I wouldn’t say it’s worse or better, and I think as a group you guys have always been consistent,” says Principal Snyder.

The start of the school year can be stressful for students who are adjusting to a new environment or facing obstacles.

“I think the biggest change for me was moving schools and being with different people and environments,” said Junior Madelyn Bell.

Also, adjusting to a new environment can be very challenging for students whether it is a brand new building with new people or if it is just a different side of the school.

Freshman David Xipolitas said, “The biggest challenge I faced from the first week of school was transitioning from being a little middle schooler to becoming a freshman and getting used to everything in the new environment.”

There were also some changes that were made to the school this year, and there are plans for future changes to the school further down the road.

“We initiated the new SmartPass Software System for students, teachers, and administration. It allows us to have some accountability for the hallways, restrooms, and other areas. We talked to Struthers and some other schools who have implemented it; they’ve had good success over the last couple of years, so we knew it would be a learning process, but that would probably be the biggest change we’ve had,” said Principal Snyder.

Even though the administration is making changes, the students are too.

The students are setting goals for themselves to achieve, so they can do better personally and academically.

Bell said, “Some goals I have are to stay involved with the school, make new friends with people because I don’t want any drama with people and get good grades.”

Also, what Xipolias wants to achieve is “try to get all A’s, study more, and pay attention in class more.”

However, there are many things that students are looking forward to this school year.

For example, Bell says, “I am looking forward to actually being able to go to prom this year.”

Xipolitas says that he is most looking forward to “making more memories and cherishing them and not just looking past it because it goes by fast.”

All in all, the students at Poland Seminary High School had a good kickoff to the new school year.