As the final days of summer give way to September, there is a familiar, vibrant energy returning to the UFRSD. The start of a new school year is a unique milestone in our community, a collective fresh slate that invites us all to imagine what is possible. For the UFRSD, the 2026-2027 school year represents a season of profound opportunity, marked by strategic new growth, enhanced learning environments and a renewed commitment to our students.
A new beginning is not just a date on the calendar; it is an opportunity for everyone, students, parents, educators and community members alike, to reset, refocus and reach higher.
To remind us as we go through the year, we are focusing on the Power of Yet for the 2026-2027 school year.
Borrowing from the growth mindset philosophy of Carol Dweck, this simple word, “yet,” transforms how we approach difficulty. When a student faces a complex math problem, a new musical instrument or a demanding athletic skill and says, “I can’t do this,” the magic lies in adding that one small word: “I can’t do this yet.” The Power of Yet reminds us all that learning is a journey, mistakes are proof of progress, and intelligence and ability can be developed through dedication and hard work. We want every child in UFRSD to understand that their potential is not fixed; it is an open horizon.
This year, our community will see fresh faces and new structures designed to elevate our schools. We are thrilled to welcome a talented cohort of new staff members across all buildings, each bringing diverse expertise and passion to our classrooms. Joining our central office leadership is our new assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction, Dr. Trish Bogusz, who will lead our ongoing mission to deliver a dynamic, rigorous and relevant academic program. Additionally, Stone Bridge Middle School welcomes a new vice principal, Matt Nemeth, who is ready to support our middle schoolers during these critical, formative years.
New beginnings also push us to refine how we operate daily to ensure safety, efficiency and growth. At Newell Elementary School, families will experience a newly redesigned morning drop-off and afternoon pickup procedure. While adjusting to new traffic patterns requires patience, this update is a vital step toward maximizing student safety and streamlining the school day.
We are also launching the statewide internet-enabled devices policy across the district. This will require a “bell-to-bell” device ban throughout the school day in all of our schools. This policy is thoughtfully designed to help create a distraction-free learning environment where face-to-face connection thrives.
With these changes come new responsibilities and distinct challenges for everyone. However, we approach these as opportunities that will only make us better, safer and more successful.
Yet, even as we embrace this wave of positive change and new opportunities, our community can rest assured that our core foundation remains unshakable. Amid new faces, new policies and new procedures, UFRSD remains constant and steadfast in our fundamental quest: to create an exceptional education and a next-level experience for our kids. Our dedication to the entire community and to fostering a safe, inclusive and high-achieving environment is unwavering.
Thank you for your continued trust, support and partnership. Together, let us step into the 2026-2027 school year with optimism, curiosity and a belief in everything we have not accomplished … yet.
Welcome back!
