Start of the school year at Muir High School, with the community and Rams cheerleaders coming together to welcome students (Photo Brian Biery)
The Pasadena Unified School District welcomed students Monday, Aug. 17, for the first day of the 2026–27 school year, beginning a new academic year under the theme, “The Power of Us: Forward Together.”
By Rena Kurlander
Across the district, educators, staff and community partners greeted students with a focus on learning, connection, opportunity and community.
The morning began at Washington Elementary STEM Magnet School, where students returned to classrooms prepared for a new year of growth and success. The school also highlighted upcoming facilities projects expected to enhance the campus in the years ahead.
PUSD Superintendent Elizabeth Blanco and Washington Elementary Principal Reyna Uka joined students, teachers, school employees and special guests for morning classroom and campus visits at the school, located at 1520 North Raymond Avenue.
The district’s first-day celebrations continued at John Muir Early College Magnet High School, where students received a spirited community welcome. School leaders, community members, alumni and civic leaders lined the walkway to cheer students as they entered campus.
Blanco, Principal Lawton Gray, Board members, school staff and special guests participated in the welcome at the school, located at 1905 Lincoln Ave.
The district said the first day brought joyful reunions and enthusiastic welcomes as schools across Pasadena began the new year with a shared commitment to learning, connection and community.
“Welcome back, PUSD!” the district said in its first-day message, highlighting activities at Washington Elementary STEM Magnet and the spirited welcome at John Muir Early College Magnet High School.
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