This week, Convent & Stuart Hall high school students returned from summer break and began their 2026-27 school year. 

International Baccalaureate seniors came in a week earlier to get a head start on their higher level classes as well as get advice from admission officers from various schools about their personal statements. The incoming freshman also started early for Freshman Success. They got to know each other before the rest of the student body arrived through bonding activities such as scavenger hunts and bowling at Presidio Bowl. 

“It was really great to see all my friends after the summer and get to meet all my new teachers,” senior Ainsley Smith said. “I was very excited to go back to Convent for my final year!” 

Every new school year, most students and teachers start with intentions and goals they wish to fulfill before the end of the year. Students wish to become more resilient, improve time management skills, attend all of their classes and submit their assignments on time, according to Carson Newman University. 

“Every year, the thing I get most excited about is getting to know all of my new students. I love seeing students shake off those nerves and start to get comfortable with the class and the material,” Ethics and World Religions teacher Clint Hackenburg said. “I get a little sad sometimes on the first day, especially with my seniors. It’s hard to explain, but I remember very clearly seeing many of them when they were freshmen. They looked 12 years old and now, in just one year, they’ll be off to college.”

As for teachers and faculty, their new school year goals differ from the students. In a survey, teachers and faculty wish to improve classroom environments, their relationships with students and families, and to improve content and teaching skills, according to Discovery Education. 

“I’m excited for all of the senior year traditions and privileges,” senior Alexandra Herrmann said. “However, I’m sad that this will be our last year together as a class, and I hope we make the best of it.” 

The senior class is beginning to take in all of the benefits of being the leaders of the school, while also taking in the emotions that come with it. This year is special for all, but especially for the students who have spent the last 12 years together. 

“It’s hard to believe it’s our last year together,” Smith said. “It seems like just last year we were wearing our aprons in kindergarten.”