And just like that, the 2025-26 school year has begun! Every summer is spent preparing and building excitement for our students’ arrival, and each year their return brings so much joy to our schools. The energy in our hallways during those first days back is unmatched, full of smiles, reunions and fresh starts.

From exciting new class offerings to multiple fresh renovations and restorations throughout our buildings, we ensured that students would enter a space that felt celebratory of their hard work and achievements and would motivate them to excel this year. Classrooms are ready and common spaces shine bright this year thanks to our dedicated staff.

Our band students spent the summer honing their skills and their hard work was on full display at their successful concert. I was blown away by the performances from the middle and high school groups. 

Our athletes have been training tirelessly for their fall seasons, demonstrating discipline, teamwork and school pride. I encourage you to join me in cheering them on and bringing your Spartan spirit to the sidelines and stands.

I am excited to share all of the ways we are ensuring a strong and supported start this year for our students. As we begin this school year, our mantra—Engage Minds. Empower Futures. Excel Together reminds us to spark curiosity, build confidence and achieve great things side by side. With the dedication of our staff, the support of our families and the spirit of our students, I know this will be a year to remember.

Welcome back Spartans! It was such a great feeling to welcome our students back this week and we are so happy to have our hallways full again! 

Students were greeted by their teachers as well as district leaders when they arrived at school Wednesday, Sept 3, who shared advice for the upcoming school year.

Golden Hill Principle Starla Ciarelli said, “The first day of school marks the beginning of endless possibilities. As we welcome our students back, we look forward to nurturing their curiosity, supporting their growth, and building a strong foundation for lifelong learning. Together, we will create a safe and caring environment where every child can thrive.”

Ciarelli’s advice to students urged them to ask questions and explore new ideas. “That’s how real learning happens.”

“Let's make the most of the time we have this year,” shared S.S. Seward Institute Principal Michael Maesano. “Get involved in a club, activity or sport. Challenge yourself with one of our many available courses. Push yourself. We are so proud of you, Spartans!”

While the halls may have been quieter and summer brought a well-earned rest for many, FUFSD was hard at work enhancing our schools inside and out. These upgrades aimed to improve the look and functionality of our learning environments, ensuring that when students returned, they stepped into spaces that support learning, safety and community pride.

At S.S. Seward Institute improvements can be seen across key spaces. The main and gym lobbies now feature vibrant new wall wraps and large, single-piece entrance mats were installed to create a cleaner, safer and more polished feel. 

The outside of our building saw improvements as well. Roof restoration work replaced and repaired sections of the roof and windscreens were installed on our front lawn’s fences.

In the gym, capital project work included replacing the bleachers, but that’s just the beginning. Fresh paint has brightened the space and new custom wall pads with logos and graphics add school spirit and cohesion. The gym floor was completely sanded and relined, featuring a new orange and blue color scheme and an updated center-court logo. 

Volleyball coach Natalie Griffin shared how special it feels to be the first group to utilize the refreshed space. “It's been an honor to be the first team to use the re-imaged gym. The girls were impressed with how the gym looks and are excited to play in a bright space.”

To celebrate the beautiful upgrades, the FUFSD community gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Monday, Aug. 25. 

“As superintendent, I firmly believe that the spaces where students learn and grow should reflect the pride we hold in our school community,” shared Superintendent Dr. Lisamarie Spindler. “By transforming our gym and shared areas with school colors, thoughtfully designed wraps, and refreshed interiors, we don’t just improve the building, we honor our identity, foster belonging, and ignite the spirit that empowers students to engage, persevere, and excel.”  

At Golden Hill, students now enjoy a brand-new playground, completed this past spring. Just beside it, an inviting outdoor eating and learning area features shaded seating, flexible tables and open space ideal for classes, lunches and school events.

This summer, Golden Hill also saw the installation of new street signs to boost visibility and safety. The welcome sign on Round Hill Road was updated with a more timeless and elegant design, which will offer a warm first impression to students, families and visitors for years to come.

Director of Facilities Jason Pickford shared he was happy with the progression of FUFSD’s summer projects. “We're excited for everyone to see the finished results!”

This work concludes Phase 1 and the planning stages for Phase 2 have begun. Phase 2 will include HVAC replacement throughout parts of both buildings, select bathroom renovations, and roof work at Golden Hill.