CSD’s youngest learners start school at Peshastin-Dryden

PESHASTIN — Cascade School District’s youngest students have joined their peers in the 2025-2026 school year. On Sept. 2, Peshastin-Dryden Elementary welcomed TK and Kindergarten students for their first day of school.

The new students begin a week after their older schoolmates, allowing them the space and time to acclimate to the transition.

“The first second day of school has all the feelings…The hopes and excitement for all of our future generation walks in the door,” said Peshastin-Dryden Elementary Principal Emily Ross.

The morning was filled with nervous excitement and a few shared tears, as the students said goodbye to their younger siblings and parents and started the first day of their academic journey.

To ease the nerves and stir excitement, Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO) greeted families with coffee and donuts as they walked up to the school. A photo backdrop of a giant piece of paper reading “First Day of School” provided the opportunity for parents to document the symbolic day. Inside, teachers welcomed their students with colorful signs, decorations, and some fun activities to start the day. Parents consoled nervous students and helped others hang up their backpacks and find their seats.

Taylor Caldwell: 509-433-7276 or taylor@ward.media