Schools across the United States celebrated the first day of the 2024-25 academic year with various festivities and new beginnings. Sarah J. Anderson Elementary in Hazel Dell treated the day like a party, with a big welcome sign and photo opportunities. Jericho High School, the first on Long Island to resume classes, had seniors reflecting on their last first day and introduced a new course on mindfulness and writing. Mandan High School in North Dakota opened its new, modern facility, though some construction is still ongoing. D.C. Public Schools unveiled seven newly finished projects, including significant renovations, as students returned to updated campuses. In Anne Arundel and Baltimore, students received a celebratory welcome with mascots and gift bags, and a notable reduction in chronic absenteeism was highlighted.