Bradley Gardens is excited to share with students a fun year of learning

Not even scorching heat can quiet the sound of the bell that signaled the first day of school in the Bridgewater-Raritan Regional School District on Wednesday, September 6.

An oppressive heat wave that has  spread throughout New Jersey forced the hand who turns the  knob to open the doors at all 11 schools in the Bridgewater-Raritan Regional School District.

Superintendent Bob Beers announced on the eve of opening day Tuesday, September 5, that the district will hold four-hour sessions for all 11 schools on both the first day of school, Wednesday, September 6, and day two, Thursday, September 7.

The abbreviated schedule did not thwart the onslaught of students, who comprise the largest district in Somerset County, to ascend on the 11 school buildings.

The hot conditions will not douse the steam of the excitement of opening day in the school district.

“We are ecstatic to welcome over 8,000 students to the 2023/24 school year,’’ Superintendent Beers said.  Unfortunately, the hottest days of the summer will take place this week, but parents, students and staff are helping to make this a positive experience for everyone!  ‘’

Dr. Laura Bassett is a veteran educator who experienced her first opening day in her role as the Principal of the Eisenhower intermediate School. She began her position this past February after she had served as the Supervisor of Arts Education in the school district since 2017.

No first-day jitters here—just first-day happiness on the part of Dr. Bassett.

“I've always loved the anticipation and excitement around the start of a new school year - and this year I am thrilled to be enjoying a new "first day of school" experience in my career - my first first day of school as principal of Eisenhower! ‘’ Dr. Bassett said. “ I cannot wait to get this year started and to work with the Eisenhower students, faculty, and school community in what is sure to be a fun and rewarding school year!”

Meanwhile, Dr. Tali Axelrod has long been opening doors and greeting new students on the first day of school.

 But Dr. Axelrod, who is the Principal of the Hillside Intermediate School, continued to cherish this special day of the school year.

“It’s such a pleasure to welcome our 5th and 6th graders to Hillside today,” Dr. Axelrod explained  during the morning of September 6. “Although I have been a principal for many years, the start of school NEVER gets old.”

She then expressed what principals and staff and students are sharing throughout the 11 schools in Bridgewater-Raritan.

“Excitement is in the air here at Hillside.”

Very hot air to say the least.