At Notre Dame, we celebrated the first day of school on two different days. Freshmen and new students returned August 8th for orientation, while remaining students returned August 10th. Whether walking through the gates for the first time or the last-first time, our fellow students were welcomed with cheers and encouragement from ASB members and staff. However, once through the gates, each student’s day proceeded a little differently.
For most freshmen, the first day of high school was very intimidating and not at all what they pictured high school to be like.
“I like my classes and the teachers here at Notre Dame”, said one freshman.
On the other hand, the first day for a senior is substantially different. By now, seniors basically have the whole high school routine down. Many were happy to see friends they had not seen since the last day of junior year. But let’s be honest, the first day of school left our seniors looking forward to things such as: graduation, football games and prom. Three varsity football players said they are “looking forward to winning games this season! One Heart, One Spirit!”
Notre Dame is indeed “One Heart, One Spirit.” This Charism lives in not only our students but also in the faculty at Notre Dame. Much like students, faculty was eager to begin the new school year. One such faculty member, Dr. Curtis Cochran, was ecstatic to see the potential in his new students.
“Students are full of hope for this year and are fresh and re-charged,” said Dr. Cochran, who teaches statistics and math. “I enjoy seeing the energy they hold within.”
As for the new faculty members, Cochran said he sees them as being “bright, young, energetic, and full of passion.”
Nothing is more exciting than the first day of school. Whether a freshman, senior, or faculty member, Notre Dame started the day full of hope for this year. We walked through the gates together, prayed before each class together, and left at the end of the day together, living our Charism One Heart and One Spirt. Cor Unum et Anima Una. Welcome to the 2015-2016 school year!