There is something special about September. It’s not just the return of pumpkin spice lattes.
After a summer filled with planning, preparation, projects and plenty of behind-the-scenes work, our schools once again come alive with the energy of our students. On Sept. 1, we proudly welcomed our students back for the 2026–2027 school year, and there is nothing quite like seeing our hallways filled with laughter, excitement and the familiar sounds of a new school year beginning.
Yes, I said Sept. 1. Yes, that was before Labor Day. This year also brings a new school calendar designed with our students, staff and families in mind. We are excited to begin this new chapter together, with the final day of school scheduled for June 17, 2027. (As a reminder, our last day of school in 2026 was June 24.) As with any change, we know a new calendar brings adjustments for families, but we are grateful for the opportunity to thoughtfully consider how our school year can best support teaching, learning and the well-being of our entire community.
As we begin this school year, I am reminded of a phrase that became especially meaningful to me over the summer while traveling in Costa Rica: Pura Vida. While often translated as “pure life,” it represents something bigger: a way of approaching life with gratitude, optimism, joy and appreciation for the people and experiences around us. That spirit is a wonderful fit for the year ahead in Lawrence Township Public Schools.
While our students were enjoying the final weeks of summer, there was an incredible amount of work happening across LTPS to prepare for their return. Much of that work happens behind the scenes, but it is essential to creating the schools our students deserve. Our custodial and maintenance teams cleaned, repaired, organized and prepared every building. Our technology, transportation, food services, business, curriculum, special education and administrative teams planned and prepared. Teachers and staff spent time setting up classrooms, collaborating with colleagues, reviewing curriculum and thinking about how to make this year meaningful for every student.
At the same time, our referendum projects continue to move forward. The transformation of the Lawrence Middle School auditorium is an exciting example of our community’s investment in the future of our schools. As we continue the work outlined in our $98 million referendum, we are building more than renovated facilities; we are creating environments that support learning, connection and opportunity for years to come.
And while buildings and facilities are important, the heart of LTPS has always been our people.
Our students are at the center of every decision we make. Our teachers and staff bring care, expertise and dedication to their work every day. Our families partner with us in countless ways. And our community continues to demonstrate its commitment to our schools and to the children we serve.
This year, we will also continue putting our new Strategic Plan into action, with a focus on Future-Ready Academics, Health & Wellness, Safety & Security, Community Engagement & Involvement, and School Culture & Climate. These priorities reflect what our community told us matters most and will help guide our work over the next several years.
There is so much to look forward to in 2026–2027. There is also much work to do. But I know that when we work together, communicate openly, support one another and keep students at the center, we can accomplish extraordinary things.
So, as we begin this new school year, I invite our entire Lawrence community to embrace the spirit of Pura Vida, find joy in the everyday moments, appreciate the people who make our schools special and approach each day with optimism and gratitude.
Here’s to a wonderful school year filled with learning, growth and connection.
Dr. Robyn Klim is the Superintendent of the Lawrence Township Public Schools.
