Dear Panther Parents & Guardians,
I hope your summer has been filled with joy, laughter, and meaningful time with loved ones.  As we prepare for the new school year, I want to take a moment to share some important updates.  Our dedicated custodial team, led by Mrs. Hutchins, has been working diligently throughout the summer to ensure our school is clean, safe, and ready to welcome back staff on Wednesday, August 21, and students on their first day, Wednesday, August 27.  Mrs. Molino is back from her summer break in the main office, she’s looking forward to supporting you and your children throughout the school year.

In the coming weeks, you’ll receive additional communication from me with important information regarding Opening Day Packets, Pick-Up Patrol, arrival and dismissal procedures, bus details, and health and safety protocols—everything you’ll need for a smooth start to the year.

We can’t wait to see you all soon!

Welcome Back Family Event
We are excited to invite all families to our Welcome Back Cookout on Monday, August 25, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. This special event, generously hosted by our PTA, is a great opportunity to kick off the school year together as a community.
The evening will begin with classroom visits from 4:30 to 5:00 p.m., where students and families can meet their teacher(s) and explore their learning spaces. Following classroom time, we’ll head outside to connect with classmates, enjoy the playground, and spend time with fellow Panther families.

Delicious food, including hot dogs and other cookout favorites, will be served as we celebrate the start of another exciting school year. We hope you’ll join us for this fun and welcoming event!
FULL EVENT DETAILS HERE!!
  
Class Placements

• Class lists will be posted on the front doors of the school on Friday, August 22 at 2:30 p.m.
• Families will also have access to class placements electronically through ParentSquare after 3:00 p.m.

The first day of school is Wednesday, August 27. Our school day runs from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Students who are not taking the bus may be dropped off between 8:30 and 8:45 a.m.

To ensure a smooth start, students will be welcomed directly into the building and go straight to their classrooms on the first two days of school. This approach allows us to review morning routines and recess procedures in a calm, supportive environment. Beginning Friday morning, students will enjoy outdoor recess between 8:30 and 8:45 a.m. before the start of the school day.
Buses will arrive at 8:30 a.m., and students arriving by bus or car will be warmly greeted by staff.

• School Breakfast and Lunch Information can be found HERE.
• Families  will receive detailed arrival and dismissal procedures in a follow-up message in the coming weeks.
• Kindergarten parents are welcome to walk their children into the building on the first day. If you have a student in another grade who is feeling especially nervous, you are also welcome to accompany them. Please remember that parking on Zion Hill Road is permitted only on the school side of the street. All parents will be kindly asked to exit the building once our morning announcements begin at 8:55 a.m.

On behalf of the entire North Salem School staff, we are excited to begin another school year with you as our valued partners. Our top priority is your child’s well-being and success, and we are honored that you entrust us with their care and education each day.
Wishing you and your family a fantastic start to the 2025–2026 school year!
Warmly,
Brent Whittaker
Principal, North Salem School