DAYTON–It is officially that time of year again, when the students must return from their summer break. The first week back was very different this year as compared to those of the past. There have been a number of changes to the school, such as new staff members, a newly designed disciplinary code, and the pleasant return of a normal sports season schedule for the year.

Over the summer, Dayton High School suffered the loss of many staff members both old and new; resulting in what feels like a totally new environment to many students. This year the high school welcomes a new teacher for each of the English, Math, Business, World History, Physical Education, and Music/Band categories. Along with the gain of new staff members, there were also other areas of need which were filled by returning staff, such as the ASB advisor, and Spanish teaching positions.

Along with the other changes to the school, this year has presented a newly designed disciplinary code, which was thoroughly explained and handed out to each student throughout the first week. This includes stricter rules when concerning things such as vaping and smoking, and other kinds of illegal substance use, as well as a redefined dress code, and other details changed here and there. The school’s disciplinary procedure was also updated and translated into a flow chart diagram, which was passed out to each student along with the updated Student Discipline hand out.

Although the new year presents a number of differences, both big and small, the student athletes of Dayton High School are delighted to return to a normal athletic calendar this year; as opposed to the 2020-21 alternative seasons. Practices for the fall sports of Volleyball and Football have already begun and the athletes could not be more excited to be back. While there were many losses of usually returning students and student athletes, the large freshman class has filled in some of the gaps, and so far, the teams seem to have promise, and plenty of enthusiasm for the season.

Amidst all of the new details, the first week of school seems to have gone by like a breeze. So far, the year seems to hold lots of promise, and hopefully Dayton High School will make the most of it.