The first day of school was a picture-perfect success across Linden as students from kindergarten to high school streamed into classrooms, proudly rocking their new district uniforms.
What began as a point of debate among some parents over the summer gave way to pure excitement, with smiles, cheers, and high-fives filling the hallways as Superintendent Dr. Atiya Y Perkins made her rounds to schools across the district.
At Linden High School, the day kicked off bright and early at 7:00 a.m. as students poured in by bus, car, scooter, and on foot. By 7:30 a.m., the campus was buzzing as Superintendent Perkins greeted students with shouts of โWelcome!โ while exchanging hugs, fist bumps, and even a few selfies.
That same energy unfolded an hour later at elementary schools like School No. 5, where proud parents snapped photos, principals waved excitedly, and teachers joyfully guided students into classrooms for the start of a brand-new academic adventure. Across every elementary and middle school in the district, similar joyful scenes marked the start of a year filled with promise.
The message was clear: on this first day, unity won the dayโand so did Lindenโs students.
โToday wasnโt just about the start of a new school yearโit was about a new chapter for Linden,โ said Superintendent Perkins, beaming as she reflected on the dayโs events. โSeeing our students walk in wearing their uniforms with such pride showed that this community is stronger when we come together. The energy, the excitement, and the smiles remind us all why we do this work. Itโs going to be an incredible year."