The countdown is over. Welcome back to school!

The 2026-2027 school year officially began in stages across Washita County, with each district opening its doors over a busy week.

Corn Bible Academy was the first to welcome students back on Thursday, August 6, followed by Canute Public School on Friday, August 7.

Burns Flat-Dill City Public Schools welcomed students on Tuesday, August 11, while today, Wednesday, August 12, marks the first day of school for Cordell Public Schools.

Rounding out the county, Sentinel Public Schools will greet students on Thursday, August 13, officially putting every Washita County school back in session.

For many students, the first day means new teachers, new classmates, and a brand-new opportunity to learn something exciting. For parents, it’s a milestone that often comes with a mix of emotions and anticipation as another school year begins.

Teachers, meanwhile, have spent weeks preparing classrooms, hanging bulletin boards, organizing supplies, and planning lessons, all while secretly hoping the classroom thermostat will cooperate this year. Their hard work behind the scenes helps create a positive environment where students can thrive from day one.

As buses resume their regular routes, motorists are reminded to stay alert during school hours, slow down in school zones, watch carefully for children crossing streets, and always stop for school buses displaying flashing red lights and stop arms. A little extra patience can go a long way toward keeping students safe.