Bolden students begin school year with high-energy welcome
Written by Bolden journalism students: J. Andrade, A. Hayes, E. Jimenez, L. Kupczyk and S. Smith.
CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. — Students at Bolden Elementary and Middle School returned to campus for the first day of the new school year to a coordinated welcome that included cheering teachers, high-fives from the principal and Marines standing at the doors.
Base leaders, including Chaplain West, Base Executive Officer Lt. Col. Eubanks and Col. Nash, joined school staff to greet arriving students. The presence of the military community underscored the shared commitment to supporting military-connected children as they start another year of learning and growth.
“My favorite part was meeting new people and making new friends,” said Keegan, a fifth grader new to the school.
Students proceeded to a schoolwide assembly in the gymnasium where staff reviewed expectations, routines and school norms before dismissing classes to begin the academic day. A sixth grader described the atmosphere simply: “The best part was that everyone was so nice and welcoming.”
In third grade, teachers introduced the learning environment and staff while guiding students through get-to-know-you activities and reviews of key concepts. Gracelyn said she loves third grade “because of Ms. Powell.” Classmate Kaito added that third grade “is awesome and I love playing Kahoot.”
Fourth graders completed a brown-bag autobiography activity. Each student selected five meaningful items from home to share as an introduction. Teacher Ms. Wynn designed the exercise so students could choose what to reveal. Jackson called the activity “interesting,” while Maelyn said it was “cool that I could learn about everyone.”
Fifth graders settled in with a mix of energy and focus. Reagan noted that classmates “can be very noisy sometimes, but I am glad to have them and spend time with them.” Jaxon observed that fifth grade brings greater responsibility and the need for stronger organization. Students expressed readiness for a productive year.
Middle school students had completed orientation the previous Friday, locating classrooms and personalizing lockers. Parents attended an orientation meeting the week before school, receiving key information and writing letters to their children about hopes and expectations for the year. Jamal said he felt “happy to get a note from his parents,” highlighting their encouragement to always believe in himself.
During the first week, middle school classes emphasized routines and team-building. Activities included cup-stacking and human-pretzel challenges, a library visit, collaborative math work and a Scoot review in social studies that mixed light and more serious questions. New students were integrated into the school community.
Lunch options also expanded. Students may select the main menu or a peanut butter and jelly sandwich and are not required to take all five items provided they include at least one fruit or vegetable with a protein. A second protein serving is available for purchase. The approach aims to improve student satisfaction while reducing waste.
