Growing up, I always enjoyed the newness of the first day of school — new school supplies, books, teachers and activities always made me smile.
Each new school year offered new set of challenges to conquer, lengths to grow and friends to make.
Last year, there was no first day of school for me for the first time in 18 years — it was sad.
I scrolled through my Facebook feed with a twinge of envy as I saw my college friends chatter about the first day of grad school and my older friends posted pictures of their little ones with backpacks in tow.
This year, however, I made up for last year’s lack of the first day of school by celebrating twice — once with several Rowan-Salisbury schools and the other at Jackson Park Elementary School in Kannapolis.
It turns out that during my one-year hiatus, the first day of school hasn’t changed too much. Kids still show up with big smiles on their faces, loaded down with tissue boxes, dry erase markers and other classroom supplies.
Teachers still explain the structure and schedules of their classrooms. They still tell students about their higher expectations and excitement for the new school year.
And it’s still magical.
I may not be in school anymore, but in the spirit of the first day of school and the new school year, I’ve decided to make some changes to the education section.
Here’s what will be coming this school year:
More content from you — I’m looking for content from you! Submit your photos from class or projects (make sure to include photos of the students and their names). Let us know who made honor roll. Let us know what events are coming up at your school. I’m even looking for students, teachers and administrators to submit columns. Submit entries to education@salisburypost.com.
Weekly column — Although not a brand new piece to the education section puzzle, this is still fairly new. Each week I’ll write a column for the education section, expanding on a story I wrote earlier that week or discussing trends or events in education.
Student and teacher spotlight section — This weekly feature is your chance to get to know the students and teachers that make local private and public schools tick. Get to know these folks on a more personal level. Look for this feature to start up over the next few weeks.
Of course, we’ll also keep the original content coming, from feature stories to shout outs and informational briefs.
I look forward to spending this school year with you.

Jeanie Groh is education reporter at the Salisbury Post. Contact her at 704-797-4222 or jeanie.groh@salisburypost.com