Families nationwide are sharpening pencils, dusting off backpacks and setting alarm clocks as another school year gets underway. There is a special energy in the air that consists of part excitement, part curiosity and, maybe, a little nervous anticipation.

The first days back are not about checking off supply lists or figuring out the right bus stop. They are about setting the tone for the months ahead, shaping habits, building attitudes and setting expectations.

As a former superintendent, I know that parents and teachers face the start of every school year with optimism as they approach new challenges. Education reforms, tight budgets and concerns about student well-being have added fresh pressures in classrooms. The question is no longer, “What will students learn?” but, “How can we

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