On Thursday, thousands of Bay Area schools welcomed students for the start of the new academic year. In the San Jose Unified School District alone, nearly 25,000 students attended 41 schools. This year, districts across the Bay are emphasizing student safety and wellness, with new policies in place. One such policy requires students to keep their cell phones put away in class, unless needed for lessons, to encourage greater classroom engagement. Reactions to this policy have been mixed among students.

In Contra Costa County, only Mt. Diablo High School and Ygnacio Valley High School have adopted a similar policy, where students must place their phones in special bags that only teachers can open.

Additionally, San Jose Unified School District has introduced wellness centers at some schools, offering safe and calming spaces. These centers provide support through guidance counselors who focus on coping strategies, time management, and communication skills.

The school year begins shortly after the tragic death of an 11-year-old boy in San Jose, who was struck by a truck. Council member Pam Foley has urged families to stay vigilant, emphasizing the need for safe driving to prevent such tragedies.