Balloons, Backpacks and Smiles Mark First Day of School in Fullerton

From colorful balloons and school mascots to carefully chosen first-day outfits and brand-new backpacks, Fullerton School District campuses came alive on Monday, August 10, as over 10,000 students returned for the start of the 2026-27 school year.

Across the District, teachers and staff lined walkways and campus entrances to welcome students and families, while parents walked children to class, snapped first-day photos and shared hugs before saying goodbye.

For some students, the morning marked a return to familiar classrooms and friends. For others, it was their very first day as an FSD student. Together, those moments marked the beginning of a new year of learning, growth and connection across the District.

“The first day of school is one of my favorite days of the year because you can see the excitement and possibility everywhere you look,” Superintendent Gretchen Janson, Ed.D. said. “Whether a student is walking onto campus for the very first time or returning for another year, we want every child and family to know they belong here and that our staff are excited and ready to support them.”