Welcome Back to a New School Year

Independence Local Schools

August 13, 2025

Dear Independence Families,

I hope you had a wonderful summer! We are excited to welcome our students back for another great year in Independence Local Schools. Below is some important information as we begin the 2025-26 school year. Please also visit our Back to School Guide for 2025-26 linked HERE.

Our Vision

  • Cultivating a legacy of excellence for all students.

Focus Last Year

  • Launching our new district vision and mission.

  • PreK–5 math adoption of Bridges in Mathematics.

  • K–12 science curriculum adoption.

  • Continued PBIS work district-wide.

  • Expanded professional development for staff.

Focus This Year

  • Deepening alignment to our vision, mission, and goals.

  • 6–12 math and K–12 English language arts instructional focus.

  • Continuing PBIS implementation and culture-building.

  • Ongoing professional learning for staff.

First Days of School

  • Thursday, August 21 – Grades 5–9

  • Friday, August 22 – Grades 10–12

  • Grades 1–4:

    Last names A–L start Thursday, August 21


    Last names M–Z start Friday, August 22

  • Kindergarten & Preschool – Start dates vary; look for details from your building principal.

Thank you for your ongoing support, partnership, and trust in our schools. Together, we will continue to ensure Independence remains a place where every student can thrive.

We look forward to an exciting year ahead!

Warm regards,

Kelli Cogan, Superintendent