School starts next week.

Yes, we know it’s still hot and humid outside. Yes, we know most kids would rather be bumming on a summer vacation somewhere, but there’s no delicate way of getting around this simple fact – school starts Monday.

Both the Fountain Hills Charter School and campuses within the Fountain Hills Unified School District will sound their bells Monday, Aug. 4.

The first week of school is similar to spring training in baseball or preseason training camps in football – everyone has the same record and hope springs eternal for an awesome year. Students and teachers alike share a spirit of enthusiasm and it’s good to get back into a routine.

One major change for FHUSD is Valerie Dehombreux, the new principal at McDowell Mountain Elementary School, who replaced the retired Joanne Meehan. Plus, there has been some projects done this summer with part of the bond money approved by voters last fall – most notably the artificial turf field being installed at the high school.

This is also a good time to remind other residents who may not have children in local schools that buses will be running next week, students will be riding bikes to school sites and still others will be walking to and from their homes. Let’s drive extra safe out there, especially around our school zones.

Here’s to an awesome school year – for students, educators, administrators, volunteers and parents alike.