EDITOR’S CHAIR

Italways amazes me when it comes to writing this section. It provides an opportunity to reflect on how fast time passes by. Just a couple of months ago, I was excited for the beginning of the summer season; now, before you know it, we will soon be seeing Halloween and Thanksgiving decorations, and if you look close enough, you might see a Christmas tree display in your favorite retail store.

I hope you enjoy our Back To School issue. I always enjoy putting this issue together as I fondly remember back-to-school seasons while growing up. I couldn't wait for the first day of school to show off my new school clothes and to see friends I hadn't seen all summer. As I got older, that nostalgic feeling never disappeared as I watched my children create their own version of excitement. The feeling is different with now with no children in "school". Now that my daughter is a college graduate and my son is entering his sophomore year of college, the back-to-school talks are now focused on financial aid, GRE prep exams, roommates, and security deposits. While I miss the days of receiving the back-to-school shopping list from the teacher, I wouldn't trade this period of my life. I look forward to watching my children blossom into young adults.

There is so much hope at the beginning of a new school year, primarily because it is a season of new beginnings. As we embark on this new year, I wish all students a fantastic year! To all the educators - teachers, admin, support staff, bus drivers, custodians, and school crossing guards, I offer encouragement and patience in everything you do. You are the true superstars in all of this, watching over and guiding our prized possessions. I hope this is your best year ever! With school busses getting prepared to return to the streets, it was imperative to include a section school bus safety.

Too many preventable incidents occur because people neglect to follow the proper laws when it comes to engaging with a school bus while driving. Please see our story on Page 18

Having a reliable internet signal is no longer considered a luxury. It is becoming a necessity. To that end, we wanted to ensure our readers knew of the Affordable Connectivity Program program and how eligible households can save up to $30/ month off their internet or wireless service if they qualify. You can read more about the program requirements on Page 11. In other school-related news, OCPS announced that it would be offering free breakfast and lunch to all students beginning this school year. This initiative will be a game changer as many children in our community deal with food insecurity challenges. Please read more about this story on Page 17. In keeping with the back-to-school theme, check out our crossword puzzle featuring the names of area schools and streets on Page 26

A special "thank you" to Kassandra M. Santiago for covering and including a story regarding the ongoing fight to try to locate, if approved, the 15th liquor store in Pine Hills. She had the opportunity to attend the most recent hearing at the Orange County Commission Chambers and to speak to concerned residents. Her story appears on Page 21.

A heartfelt thank you to all of our advertisers, and I know they all join me as I wish everyone a safe and happy 2023-24 school year!