As they do every year, Powell students are returning to school and acclimating to new classrooms and teachers — some students are even walking through school doors for the first time.

The 2023-2024 academic year for Park County School District 1 begins today (Tuesday), with 21 new certified staff also starting the new year in Powell schools. This includes a new teacher at Clark Elementary School and a classic kindergarten teacher for the district.

Aside from new teachers, there are only a few changes including an increased focus on communication and transparency and continued focus on operating Powell schools as Professional Learning Communities as well as an increase in allotted space for special education at Powell Middle School. 

In Powell’s elementary schools the day will begin at 8:07 a.m. and breakfast for students will be before the bell. At Powell Middle School classes begin at 8 a.m. following breakfast. At Powell High School classes start at 7:55 a.m. following breakfast. This year lunch costs will increase by 10 cents for students and 30 cents for adults. There will be no changes in breakfast and milk costs. Powell elementary schools will let out at 3:15 p.m. and 12:35 p.m. on Fridays when school is let out early. Powell Middle School will let out at 3:25 p.m. and 12:45 p.m. on Fridays. Powell High School will let out at 3:30 p.m. and 12:50 p.m. on Fridays.

Powell schools will take winter break Dec. 22-Jan. 5 and spring break will be March 12-15.

Graduation is May 19 and the last day of school for all non graduating students will be May 28.