It’s hard to believe that, in just a few weeks, on August 31, another school year will start. Back to school items have lined the aisles of stores since early July. Usually, I’m excited to return to school. Who doesn’t love picking out a new backpack and buying new clothes? But this year, as I enter eighth grade, I feel a bit more anxious than usual. As we know, the Issaquah School District has planned for everyone to go back to in-person school, full-time, yet I can’t help but have questions racing through my mind like:
“Will we have lockers?”
“Will we still have assigned seats at lunch?”
“Will sports and after-school clubs return?”
I’m sure I’m not the only one who has questions or is feels a little uneasy about this upcoming school year, but it helps to remember we are all starting from varying experiences. Last spring, students could choose to continue to learn remotely or go back to in-person school. A few of my friends who decided to stay remote will now step back into the school building for the first time in over a year.
Despite some uncertainties, there are tons of things to look forward to in the upcoming school year. I look forward to seeing my friends, meeting all my new teachers, and school getting back to somewhat normal. The Highlands Youth Advisory Board has already started to plan clubs and events to help students regain connections within our community.
Ultimately, I think it is important for all of us to take our time and remember to take small steps as we transition into a new school year.
Grace Rich is an eighth-grader, Highlands Youth Advisory Board member, and a Daphne Park resident.
