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Welcome back Tigers

NANCE BESTON | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 4 months AGO
by NANCE BESTON
Staff Writer | September 2, 2025 3:15 AM

EPHRATA — The Ephrata School District kicked off the 2024-25 academic year on Aug. 28 with a palpable sense of excitement among students and educators alike. As the first day of school unfolded, school administrators expressed their eagerness to engage with returning students and enhance their educational experience. 

Ephrata High School Principal Ashlie Miller shared her thoughts about the start of the school year.  

“It’s exciting,” she said. “I was a little stressed out because we weren’t quite ready, but once the kids get here, it just feels invigorating.”  

She noted the adorable presence of freshmen on campus, stating, “They are all just sweet, lost, and nervous." 

A significant event, Senior Sunrise, marked the morning for the seniors at Ephrata High.  

"It was fun seeing everyone that I haven't seen in a long time,” Senior Danica Dart said. 

Dart mentioned that she was particularly looking forward to her final year, appreciating the chance to become more involved with her school community and graduate alongside her classmates.  

“I’m most excited for all the experiences,” she said, expressing her enthusiasm for the year ahead. 

At Parkway Intermediate, Principal Kim Gilreath conveyed a sense of responsibility as she welcomed students back.  

“It’s just fun to have the kids back in the building,” she said.  

“Just giving kids high fives off the bus and saying good morning,” she said, was a heartwarming part of her day. 

In addition to welcoming students, both Miller and Gilreath discussed the implementation of new initiatives. 

Miller introduced "Tiger Days," an alternative schedule aimed at enhancing intervention and enrichment opportunities for students.  

“We’re hoping that this will just add a layer of accountability,” she said.  

 Overall, students and staff alike seemed excited to begin another year. 

“We are going to have the best year this year,” Dart said. “I just know it.” 

    Superintendent Ken Murray helps put up flags on Basin Street on the first day of school at Ephrata School District.
 
 
    Seniors at Ephrata High School meet at 6 a.m. Thursday for the Senior Sunrise celebration.
 
 
    Students at Ephrata High School walk around and chat with friends during the first passing period of the school year.
 
 


    A student at Grant Elementary hugs a staff member as he walks into school on the first day.
 
 
    Two Ephrata High School Students take a syllabus quiz on the first day of school.
 
 
    A student attends his second period of the day at Ephrata High School.
 
 
    Students at Parkway Intermediate get greeted by the high school cheer and football team.
 
 
    A student poses in front of Grant Elementary on the first day of school.
 
 
    Seniors take pictures at the senior sunrise Thursday.
 
 
    Students at Grant Elementary high-five high school cheer and football players as they walk into the school for the first day.
 
 


    Students at Parkway Intermediate work on a first-day-of-school word search.
 
 


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