09/03/2026
In response to a question on how the first day of school went, Westfield Public Schools Superintendent Stefan Czaporowski asked the principals. By all accounts, the school year was off to a great start.
“Westfield Public Schools had an outstanding opening day, with students and staff across the district bringing tremendous energy, enthusiasm and a strong sense of community to the start of the 2026–2027 school year,” Czaporowski said. “There is nothing better than seeing our schools filled with students again, and I am incredibly grateful to our dedicated staff and families for making their first day back such a welcoming, exciting and positive experience.”
Czaporowski said there were some transportation issues during the opening days of school, but the district’s transportation department has been working diligently to address them under new manager Laurie Peterson. “The team has put in significant extra time to resolve the issues quickly and ensure reliable service for our students and families,” he said.
Over at Westfield High School, Principal Charles Jendrysik said it felt great to welcome back the students.
“Students from the class of 2027 were excited to arrive early for their Senior Sunrise and paint the rock with handprints at the front of the school. They also wore their class shirts. Great energy to the day,” Jendrysik said, adding that the school also welcomed four exchange students from the Netherlands, Germany, South Korea and Japan.
At Westfield Technical Academy, Principal Daniel Paquette welcomed his first class in his new role. Paquette, who previously served as assistant principal, was hired following the retirement of Bruce Hastings at the end of June.
“The first day was great. Every student I checked in with had nothing but positives to say about their day,” Paquette said, adding that School Resource Officer Bryan Turgeon had the opportunity to kick off the year with a plane ride with Kenneth Dromgold, aviation tech advisory board chair.
Westfield Middle School Principal Jesse McMillan also said the first day went extremely well. “Students and staff settled into the new school year with great energy, and our first fire drill was a success, with students and staff responding quickly and calmly. We also had a smooth transition to our new arrival and dismissal procedures in the newly redesigned parking lot. Overall, it was a very positive start to the school year, and we are excited for what’s ahead,” McMillan said.
Westfield Intermediate School Principal Mary Claire St. James was excited to start the year in her new role, replacing former principal Gregory Miller, now an assistant principal at WTA.
“Our first day at Westfield Intermediate School was a great start to the 2026-2027 school year! Students settled into their new routines, connected with teachers and classmates, and began learning what it means to be part of the WIS community. Students practiced our schoolwide ASK expectations — Accountable, Safe, and Kind — throughout the day and successfully completed our first fire drill, responding calmly and responsibly,” said St. James.
“We also enjoyed seeing students take advantage of our newly paved blacktop during recess, which added another exciting element to the first day. It was wonderful to see the energy, excitement, and sense of community throughout the building as our fifth and sixth graders began a new year together,” she added.
Elementary school principals also weighed in.
“Paper Mill Elementary School welcomed back grades 1-4 on Monday, Aug. 31. Students and families were greeted with smiling staff, beautification projects throughout the grounds, a shiny building, new playscape equipment, and photo opportunities. Having the school full of our wonderful students again makes a heart happy. We thank all the staff, our PTO, the maintenance department, and central office for their efforts to kick off the 26-27 school year in such a positive way,” said Principal Michael Atkins, who took the opportunity to announce that Paper Mill’s open house will be on Thursday, Sept. 17, from 6-7:30 p.m. “Welcome back Paper Mill Pandas!” he said.
Westfield River Elementary School Principal Jill Phelan, who posed with the school mascot Rocky the Otter, called the first day a success. “We were thrilled to welcome all of our students, new and returning, to campus! The energy was high in the gym as everyone gathered with their teachers, and the day was made even brighter by a special surprise visit from Rocky the Otter! Students and staff were excited to be back! We couldn’t have asked for a better start, and we are looking forward to an incredible school year ahead,” she said.
Principal Erika Masciadrelli said laughter and excitement filled the hallways as Highland Elementary officially kicked off the new school year.
“The energy throughout the building was palpable as staff and administration warmly welcomed back all grade 1-4 students for what promises to be an exceptional year of learning, growth and community,” Masciadrelli said. She said that while the older students settled into their daily routines, Highland’s youngest learners eased into their school experiences with special playdates, family orientation and classroom exploration for pre-K and kindergarten. School begins for pre-K and kindergarten students on Sept. 8.
“From the moment the doors opened, Highland Huskies showed up ready to learn and eager to reconnect with friends and teachers. Students stepped into their classrooms with confident smiles, ready to lead by example, while staff spent the opening days building vibrant classroom communities and setting high goals,” Masciadrelli said.
“The energy during these first days sets the tone for everything we accomplish together. Seeing our Huskies return with such positive attitudes and watching our newest families get acquainted with our community makes it clear that this year is going to be truly special.”
Masciadrelli also thanked the parents, guardians, and dedicated staff who worked tirelessly to ensure a smooth transition back to the classroom. “Here’s to a safe, inspiring and successful year ahead — go Huskies!”
Westfield Public Schools kicked off the 2026-2027 school year with high energy across all buildings, as principals reported smooth openings, new staff, and excited students.
