BACK TO SCHOOL: Malden Public Schools welcome back district’s over 6,000 students

Mayor Christenson, Supt. Dr. Noriega-Murphy on hand to greet students, staff on first day of school

By Steve Freker

The doors swung open and the “welcome mat” was on full display Wednesday as over 6,000 Malden Public Schools students embarked on another year of learning. The new school year is officially underway for all students in grades 1 through 12, with the pre-K and kindergarten students following on September 7. Malden Mayor Gary Christenson and Superintendent of Schools Dr. Ligia Noriega-Murphy were on hand to greet the students on Day One Wednesday and offer encouragement to all as they start the new school year.

“I will tell all of you some advice that I received from this past year’s graduating seniors: Try everything!” Mayor Christenson said Wednesday morning to the assembled Class of 2027 ninth-graders at Malden High’s Jenkins Auditorium. “Try a club, play a sport, volunteer around the school or in the community… but get involved! There are so many opportunities to help you become a part of the school and help your academic success as well.”

Supt. Noriega-Murphy was also on hand at the high school opening, as well as at all of the other Malden K-8 schools, to greet students and staff. She also encouraged the incoming freshmen to take advantage of all the resources offered. “You are all now in high school and on what is the most important part of your academic journey,” Dr. Noriega-Murphy said. “Everyone is here to help make sure you are the best student and classmate you can be. All the resources you need are here. We are so happy you are ready to go for the new school year.”

The Superintendent carried her message to the five Malden K-8 schools as the morning progressed and reported that all of the students and staff were excited about the start of the new school year.

“We are grateful for all of the hard work and commitment shown by so many of our administrators, educators and staff who helped prepare us so well for the new school year,” Supt. Noriega-Murphy. “We are ready to go and make sure it is the amazing year we expect for our students, families and caregivers.”

After the school days this week, there are no classes today – Friday – and also no classes on Monday, September 4, in observance of Labor Day. Classes resume on Tuesday, September 5, for all students in Grades 1-12.