Superintendent highlights campus safety and academics as senior athletes and cheerleaders welcome students back for the first day of school.
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — The first day of school arrived on Wednesday at Tuloso-Midway ISD, where students returned to classrooms for the start of a new academic year with school spirit, excitement, and a renewed focus on campus safety.
As buses rolled out to pick up students, Superintendent Steve VanMatre said the district is ready to welcome families after completing major safety and security upgrades across its campuses.
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“When these parents drop off the most precious possession they have, which is their child, they expect us to keep them safe,” VanMatre said. “We do everything possible to make sure they can feel a sense of ease that their child is going to be safe.”
VanMatre said student safety remains the district’s top priority, followed by academic success and ensuring teachers have the resources they need to help students thrive.
“If we can do those three things, we’re going to have a terrific school year,” he said. While students prepared for their first day back, many were already looking ahead to another tradition — fall sports.
Senior football and volleyball players shared their excitement for what will be their final high school season. “It’s exciting,” one senior football player said. “The whole community comes out and watches us. It’s just a great atmosphere.”
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A senior volleyball player said the team has spent the summer preparing with strength and conditioning, open gyms and club volleyball.
“We’re going to try and take the district title this year,” she said.
The athletes also offered advice to younger students beginning the school year. “Listen to your teachers and work hard,” one football player said.
“Be yourself. Don’t be scared to ask questions or ask for help,” a senior volleyball player added. The school’s senior varsity cheerleaders also greeted the first day with enthusiasm, encouraging new students to embrace the experience.
“It’s good to start the day with good energy so kids know they don’t have to be scared,” one cheerleader said. “We’re all here to be friends.” The cheerleaders reminded freshmen to enjoy the experience, be themselves and make the most of the new school year.
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