To The Editor,

A new school year provides a fresh start or new beginning for students, staff, and the whole community. This year in particular, the anticipation of what the world will look like not only today but ten months from now is giving a heightened sense of emotion for everyone.

I want to thank our school administrators, teachers, and staff for having to prepare to reopen schools and welcome students back with a set of uncertain guidelines and fluctuating enrollment. I am inspired by your dedication to provide students with an environment where they can learn and thrive, no matter what obstacles are added.

To our communities, I have a few thoughts for you to keep in mind as the 2021-2022 school year commences so we can make this fresh start a success for everyone.

Be Kind — There are incredible differences in opinion on how the pandemic response should be trending. Bear in mind what works for you or your family may not be the best solution for another. Only some of the regulations applied at your school’s building level are controlled locally, so be patient with school staff as they acclimate students to being back in the classroom. I know it has been an unusual and trying couple years, but we need to continue to work through this pandemic together. We need to be there for each other.

Be Safe — Our morning and afternoon commutes will now be littered with buses and pint-sized pedestrians. Please take your time navigating neighborhoods and remember that your regular drive may be a few minutes longer with additional traffic.

Be Resilient and Have Fun -—Let’s focus on the excitement and up-side to being back in school. This year is full of opportunities for both students and staff to learn and lead. Starting the year off with full-time in-person learning brings our young people the consistency and routine they need to succeed — even if your 12-year-old is not currently appreciating the earlier wakeup call this week.

I wish all our students, parents, and school staff a successful start to this school year!

Tony Hwang

State Senator, 28th District