Sept. 1, 2023-- Dozens of buses brought thousands of teachers, nurses, maintenance workers, paras, and all staff members from each of the district's 19 buildings to RWJBarnabas Health Arena this morning. The occasion was kicking off the 2023-2024 school year.

There were lots of hugs as friends from different schools reunited. DJ Phil Walsh, representing Walnut Street Elementary, played the tunes as the crowd gathered, which only increased the positive energy on a picture-perfect Friday morning. Assistant Superintendents Pat Thomas and Cara DiMeo led the crowd in what was probably the biggest game of Kahoot! anyone there had ever been involved in, featuring questions about Toms River's history.

Superintendent Mike Citta's talk to the packed arena included perspective and motivation for the upcoming school year, recognition of all of the groups that make the district what it is (above), and even featured an impromptu blooper reel video which proved that he, and we, are only human. The talk was capped with chants of "We are ... TR!"

From the arena, staff returned to their buildings to take part in some professional development sessions and to prepare for students' arrival for the first day of school on Tuesday.

As for this morning, the sun was out, the vibes were great, and from the look, sound, and feel of things, everyone is amped to start the 2023-2024 school year in style. Additional photos below.