As the School Bells Ring: Unique First Day Traditions Across America
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The return to school after a summer break is a momentous occasion filled with traditions, emotions, and a sense of new beginnings. Across the United States, approximately 54 million students are heading back to classrooms, each school bringing its unique flair to the first day of the academic year.
Los Angeles, Calif.
At Micheltorena Street Elementary School in Los Angeles, the transition to kindergarten is eased with a special tradition initiated by Principal Nichole Sakellarion. Recognizing the challenges young students face, she started welcoming kindergarteners a day early, a practice now firmly embedded in the school’s culture.
Gerald Gomez-Reina high-fives new kindergartener Ian Patterson after they track down his cubby just before the first day of school at Micheltorena Street Elementary in Los Angeles. Julie Leopo for NPR
Sakellarion explains, “It’s really to make them feel a little more connected, to make their day a little smoother and to help them navigate the big emotions of starting in a new place.”
Kindergarteners are paired with fifth-grade “toolbox coaches” who guide them throughout the year. On the first official day, these coaches lead the youngsters to their classrooms, easing any potential fears. One fifth grader, Noemi Ulloa, recalls her own nervous first day and hopes to help her younger peers manage their emotions.
Gerald Gomez-Reina, another fifth grader, shared some strategies they’ll teach, such as deep breathing and the “garbage can” technique to discard unwanted emotions. His stuffed raccoon, Rocket, also serves as a comforting presence for the new students.
Edmond, Okla.
In Edmond, Oklahoma, a different approach is taken to the first school day journey. At Will Rogers Elementary, about 25 students and parents met at a park to embark on a “bike bus” ride to school, a tradition that has gained popularity in recent years.
Will Rogers Elementary students cruise down a hill on their route to school after a routine brake check. Parents, students and a car monitor ride about a mile from the park to the school as part of what’s called a bike bus. Beth Wallis/StateImpact Oklahoma
First grader Hayden Raupe enjoys bypassing the long lines of cars, expressing the benefits of biking. “Biking’s actually better because you don’t have to wait in a long line,” he says, with his brother Owen echoing the sentiment.
Beaverton, Ore.
In Beaverton, Oregon, the high school experience has been completely transformed with a move to a new building. Beaverton High School, with its nearly 1,400 students, now boasts modern facilities, including a state-of-the-art theater and large LED screens.
A student walks by a window opening up to the courtyard at the newly rebuilt Beaverton High School on the first day of the 2026-27 school year. Eli Imadali/Oregon Public Broadcasting
Principal Andrew Kearl emphasizes the importance of creating a warm environment in the new building. Leah Baird, a special education teacher, appreciates the adjustable lighting and abundant natural light, which help meet students’ sensory needs.
Charles City County, Va.
In Virginia, Charles City Elementary welcomes students with a literal red carpet, especially significant for the youngest attendees experiencing school for the first time.
4-year-old Olivia Person stands outside Charles City Elementary on her first day of school with her 2-year-old sister Aria. Megan Pauly/VPM News
Teacher Kelly Orrell reads “The Kissing Hand” to her preschoolers to help ease first-day jitters, while the school hosts a “boo-hoo breakfast” for parents, offering them a space to share their mixed emotions.
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