Just as students count down the days to the start of summer vacation, I suspect there might be a few parents who are counting down the days to the start of the school year. In Owatonna, grades 9-12 begin August 29, grades 6-8 start August 30, and those in E-5 go back to school on August 31.

Owatonna High School principal Kory Kath is ready to welcome students back to class. He writes in the online newsletter, "We are excited to kick off a successful school year and look forward to creating great memories and positive relationships. Our mission is to inspire excellence, every learner, every day. To do this, we must commit to strong relationships and focused learning that is on time, on task, and on target."

An open house is set for Monday, August 22 for those in 10th through 12th grade from 9 am to 3 pm in the Upper Commons/C200 Plaza at the high school. Tuesday, August 23 from 2:30 to 6 pm is an open house for ninth graders.

For students brand new to OHS, an informational meeting is scheduled for 2 pm in the Career Center, "A variety of topics will be discussed to help you feel more at ease and assist you in getting your Chromebook, schedule, and pictures," according to the newsletter.

Important dates from the school district newsletter:

Important dates from the High School Welcome Back newsletter:

Students planning to participate in a fall activity should be sure to get signed up through the Owatonna Activities website before the first day of practice on Monday, August 15.