Students, staff, and parents have returned to Topanga Elementary Charter School (TECS) filled with excitement and optimism as they begin the new school year. The mood among the returning school community is calmer and more positive than a year ago, as Covid-19 fears continue to subside for most families. TECS Principle Kevin Kassebaum is encouraged by the outlook for the year ahead. “We are seeing an increase in student enrollment, parents are eager and willing to volunteer their time, while our teachers and staff work collaboratively to ensure we provide meaningful instruction to all students,� he said. The first sign of bouncing back could be seen at the “Prep and Polish� event, the annual curtain-raiser where students and parents met their new teachers for the first time. Last year, this event was held on the sidewalk outside of the school gates. But this time, families were able to explore the TECS campus and visit their classrooms. The first assembly of the school year was another example of the community coming together again. All parents are welcome to join the weekly gathering that takes place in the school courtyard at 8 a.m. every Friday. Many were in attendance for the first of the year as second grader Rylie Applegate led the Pledge of Allegiance in front of her fellow students. “I’ve learned all the words from listening in assembly,� said Rylie, eight. “It’s kind of like a poem about the American flag.� Topanga Enrichment Programs (TEP), the school’s booster club, are continuing their important work funding instructors and initiatives that LAUSD funding doesn’t cover. Among the important resources paid for by TEP are the instructional aides for classrooms, and the specialist science, art, and physical education teachers who benefit every child in the school. These expert staff wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of TECS families who are asked to donate $1200 per child to the Giving Fund for the school year ahead. This is a return to the figure asked of parents before the Covid-19 lockdowns, to help TEP reach their $235,000 annual budget target. This is a guide, not a requirment, and families are asked to donate whatever they can afford. TEP also raises money from a series of fundraisers throughout the year. Among the first TEP events of this school year is an adult-only Casino Night, to be hosted at Froggy’s on September 24. Other events arranged by TEP focus on building community spirit and giving back, like the Back to School Picnic scheduled for September 15, and the annual Topanga Beach Cleanup, to be held on September 17, which is California Coastal Cleanup Day. This year’s new TEP president Bridget Cook, whose son Booker is in fifth grade, said: “We’re hoping this year will offer more opportunities to come together as a community to enjoy the wonderful canyon we’re lucky to call home, and to raise money to improve the opportunities of our children at our fantastic school.� Those wanting to donate to TEP can do so at topangaelementary.org, or learn more about TEP by visiting topangaelementary.org/tep; or tepboard@topangaelementary.org.