Strike up the band, a new school year has begun in Warren County.

The Pioneer Pride Marching Band was at full volume and new WCHS executive principal Chris Hobbs was handing out donuts as students bounced into class for the first day of school at the high school on Tuesday.

“We want this to set the tone for the entire year,” said Hobbs, who was at school at 5:30 a.m. with a group of seniors gathered in the parking lot for Senior Sunrise.

“The Senior Sunrise was a lot of fun but I told the kids they’ve already shown their hand,” said Hobbs. “If they can get here at 5:30 a.m., there’s no reason for them to be late when school doesn’t start till 7:45 a.m.”

The band created a festive atmosphere as students walked into school with a smile. Many of the seniors also realized it would be their final first day of high school.

“I’m going to make the most of this year because I know it will go by really fast,” said Mary Grace Martin, one of three senior cheerleaders.

Matthew Key said the start of his senior year has been tough on his mom.

“She’s been seeing all the senior pictures that have been posted online and she can’t believe we’re all seniors now,” said Matthew. “I’m excited about this year for sure.”

At least one senior was eager to cut to the chase. When asked what he’s looking forward to most about his senior year, Mason Thaxton said, “Getting my diploma at graduation.”

With teachers in high demand, Hobbs was pleased to say WCHS is at full staff.

“I’m just one assistant short of being fully staffed and I had one interview for that job yesterday so I think we’re good,” said Hobbs.

It’s been less than two months since Hobbs was hired in mid-June to be WCHS executive principal. During those two months, he’s hired five academy principals and gone over all the policies and procedures at the high school to determine areas that can improve.