A year ago at this time, Ceres High and Central Valley had to hold its Back to School Nights virtually due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Students and families attended meet-and-greet events outdoors on campus for the 2021-22 school year on Aug. 25.

“It was our first time doing it that way,” Ceres High Activity Director Amanda Casas said. “We had a lot of positive feedback from faculty, staff and parents. Our main mission was to connect with our families and build a relationship.”

“It was a very positive night,” Central Valley Principal Carol Lubinsky said. “I would call it a success. The previous year was all done virtually. It was nice to see people enjoying being at our school.”

The Kick’n Taco catered Ceres High’s Back to School Night, which was staged from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Students received family food tickets after meeting with all of their teachers.

“We had a great turnout,” said Casas. “It was nice to see families and students. Everyone likes the format,” Casas said. “The plan is to continue to do this regardless of COVID.”

Central Valley dance and cheer teams and student musicians performed during Back to School Night, which lasted two hours (6-8 p.m.). 

Dinner was also served.

“Everyone was spread out so we didn’t have clusters of people together,” Lubinsky said. “Many people had masks on.”