How you start the school year matters. The first days and weeks set the tone for everything that follows — and no one knows that better than Cathy Sork, 2024 AWSP Elementary Principal of the Year and principal at Dorothy Fox Elementary in Camas.
In her recent article for NAESP’s Communicator, Cathy shares nine creative, practical ways principals can help students feel like essential members of their school community from the moment they walk through the doors. From pairing buddy classrooms to creating name murals to kicking off the day with student-led music, each idea builds belonging, joy, and leadership.
Cathy reminds us:
“Starting strong doesn’t mean having all the answers—it means creating space for all students to be part of the journey.”
Whether you’re looking for fresh ideas to energize your start-of-year traditions or ways to deepen student voice and ownership, Cathy’s strategies will inspire you to make every handshake, every leadership role, and every welcome message count.
📖 Read the full article on NAESP’s website: 9 Ways Principals Can Get Students Engaged From Day 1