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There was always something magical about going to the shoe store before the start of the school year. I recall the friendly older man, Mr. Richard, who worked at York Shoes in Patchogue, New York, and the rich leather smell when I walked in. Each year, mom would take us to the store to get fitted for new school shoes. My older brother and I were so excited to stand on the metal shoe guide to see how much our feet had grown. This tradition was the first indicator that summer was drawing to a close. Nowadays, it is so different. There's the internet and Zappos to the rescue. I am sure you all have end-of-summer routines that amp you up for the return of the fall season and the return to school.
That first day of school is so exciting every year. One particular September, I vividly recall the first time I was allowed to walk to my elementary school. I had my new shoes tied tightly and worried about the dew and dirt ruining the suede. (Do we have any Pete the Cat fans out there? This made me think of his "I Love My White Shoes" book!) As the youngest of four, I was given more freedom than my siblings and relished that I could trek to school with my friends. Alas, I took the risk, walked to school, and survived. Those shoes walked me to school every day that school year. I quickly learned that there's nothing like a comfy worn shoe...and the dew and dirt are unavoidable! (If you haven't read "I Love My White Shoes" with your child, you'll have to ask Mrs. Ridder to borrow it...the story really does parallel!) I was well on my way to feeling independent and proud of myself for walking with the "Nelson Avenue" crew to elementary school.
The palpable excitement of a new school year never gets old for me. The night before the first day of school is always a sleepless one. The butterflies, the anticipation of a fresh start, and the sadness of summer's end all mix with a big dash of happiness to be reunited with FH friends. How on earth could anyone sleep?!
There is so much to be thankful for as we open our doors for our 92nd year! I'd like to take this opportunity to welcome all of our families, students, teachers, and staff—new and old. This year promises to be another memorable one. With the return of in-person after-school activities, fall athletics, the performing arts, and events, there will be ample opportunity for us to come together as a community.
Now, let's get down to business. The campus is open and we are thrilled to welcome back your children.
- The first day of school is Thursday, September 9. We will be ready to greet your children at 8 a.m.! (7:30 a.m. for those of you taking advantage of early drop-off at the Main Entrance.)
- Back-to-School night for Grades 5–8 is Tuesday, September 14, 6–8:30 p.m.
- There is no school on Thursday, September 16, as we are closed for Yom Kippur.
- Back-to-School night for Preschool through Grade 4 is Thursday, September 23, 6–8:30 p.m.
And mark your calendar: there is a very exciting Far Hills family-friendly event on Friday, October 1 at 5 p.m. More details will follow...but I want to be sure you don't miss it!
If you haven't done so already, make sure you read Volume 1 and Volume 2 of our Back-To-School Plan. They outline everything you need to know about using SchoolPass before arriving at school every day, how lunch will work, the dress code, and more.
I am excited about the year ahead and look forward to working with you to make Far Hills the best school it can be, true to its values, our Mission and evolving to best serve the needs of the students.
Be well,
Georgia S. Zaiser
Head of School