Epsom Central School Kicks Off the 2026-2027 Academic Year

The start of the school year brings back a familiar rhythm within our community. By Sini Kerman

As summer fades and signs of autumn appear, the academic year begins at Epsom Central School. Beyond the familiar sights of backpacks and school buses, the excitement of new classrooms and new beginnings, the start of the school year brings back a familiar rhythm within our community. As students, teachers, staff, and families gear up for a new year of growth and learning, we asked Principal Patrick Connors a few questions about what he looks forward to this year at ECS.

1. What are you most looking forward to this school year? As we begin the 2026–27 school year, we are looking most forward to creating meaningful learning experiences that inspire our students to learn, grow, and discover their role in the world around them. This year is especially significant as our nation celebrates its 250th anniversary, giving us a wonderful opportunity to explore our country’s history, civic responsibility, and the values that help shape our communities. We are excited to see our ECS community come together throughout the year. Our faculty is committed to creating a school culture where every student feels supported, respected, and empowered to thrive. Each child brings something unique to our school, and we look forward to celebrating their curiosity, growth, and contributions throughout the year.

2. Is there anything new happening at school this year (a program, a space, a project) that families should know about? One exciting change at ECS this year is welcoming six new members to our school community—three new teachers and three new case managers. Recently, we have had several of our veteran staff members retire after lengthy careers of dedicated service to our students and families. We are incredibly grateful for the experience, care, and lasting impact they have shared with ECS. As we welcome new team members, we look forward to supporting them as they become part of our community and bring fresh perspectives, ideas, and energy to our school.
   

3. Looking back at last year, what's a moment that stuck with you? One of the moments that really stuck with us from last year was seeing the growth our students made, particularly through our i-Ready assessment data. Our Data Team worked thoughtfully throughout the year to analyze student progress, identify areas of need, and use that information to guide instruction and support. It was rewarding to see how that intentional, collaborative work translated into meaningful growth for our students.
   

4. What's one way families can help make this school year a great one? One of the best ways families can help make this school year a great one is to celebrate learning together by getting involved in the many activities and events happening at ECS. We have a newsletter each month that highlights the activities and our events calendar on the ECS website.  Whether it’s attending a school celebration, supporting a student showcase, or participating in a community event, their presence and enthusiasm make a meaningful difference. When families and school staff come together to celebrate our students, we strengthen the sense of community that makes ECS such a special place to learn and grow.  

5. If you had to describe the energy of "back to school" season in three words, what would they be?
   

Positive, Exciting, Engaged

Alexa, Noah, and Eloise Huntley

We also had an opportunity to connect with Alexa Huntley, Librarian and mom of two ECS students. We asked Alexa to tell us what three words she would choose to describe the energy of back to school, and she answered, “Hopeful, Energizing, Chaotic. Back to school is hopeful and energizing with the excitement of a new year, with a tad bit of chaos to keep us ready for anything.”