Kicking off the 2024-25 school year, dedicated educators buzzing with anticipation gathered on Hatchell Field for Academy District 20's annual Back to School Rally.
The annual event marks a new academic year and allows D20 educators to step back onto campus for the first time since summer break, reuniting with their teams and celebrating the year ahead.
A tunnel of cheerleaders ushered staff into the D20 South Stadium, where music filled the air, and an all-new seating arrangement invited everyone to soak in the cool summer morning.
Superintendent Jinger Haberer offered words of hope in her address to staff, sharing, "You are the heartbeat of our district, tirelessly shaping the futures of our students."
She challenged all D20 staff to "embrace opportunities for growth and innovation," setting the tone for a year of exciting initiatives including:
Expanding Career and Technical Education at middle and high school levels
Weaving the D-20 Portrait of a Graduate into every facet of district life
Ensuring students master grade-level standards and graduate with post-secondary plans
The rally continued with a showcase of student talent including AFJROTC who presented colors with precision, voices soared in the national anthem, and Pine Creek High School band members added to the day, too.
Isabel Carew, a Village High School senior, spoke with passion about the profound impact of educators, "Our teachers have given us the confidence to speak words of power and change, equipping us with skills to tackle whatever the world throws our way."
As the grand finale, Sammi Schultz, an Olympian in the sport of modern pentathlon and 7-time U.S. National Champion, left the crowd with a powerful reminder: "Hold your purpose close in tough times. Find joy in the little things and remember, you're not alone on this journey."
