Teachers, students prepare for class

A sign in Cody Farnworth's biology classroom reads, "Failing to prepare is preparing to fail."

That's why he's spent much of this month getting ready for today - the first day of school in Carson City's secondary schools.

Farnworth, a 1990 graduate of Carson High School, is taking over a biology teaching position left vacant when his father, Ron Farnworth, retired last year after teaching for 30 years.

"I'm excited to be back. I feel great," he said. I've had a lot of help and support, so that makes it nice."

Teachers throughout the district returned to school Monday to prepare classrooms for the return of the students today and Wednesday.

"You come down off and on the week before, but today it really hits us," said digital photography teacher Susan Taylor on Monday. "Tomorrow they're going to be here."

For biology teacher Julie Koop, it's a chance to start fresh.

"It's always fun when a new year starts," she said. "It's like a new start, which is nice compared to a lot of different occupations."

Chris Chatwood, 17, will be a senior next year and has mixed emotions about the start of a new school year.

"I want it to end again," he said. "The sooner it starts, the sooner it ends and I can get out of here."

Lora McComb, 16, is looking forward to getting back into the drama club.

"I love being a part of the group and working with everybody," McComb said. "This year, I am historian and tech director of the club. I'm hoping to go to a performing arts college."

Jessica Weismann, 17, and Courtney Priess, 15, are among the cheerleaders set to perform at this morning's pep assembly.

"We're really nervous," Weismann said. "We don't want to screw up."

"You're up there in front of everybody," Priess added.

Carson City's elementary schools will start Wednesday.

"I don't want to go back," said Collin Grischott, 9, who will start fourth grade at Fritsch Elementary School. "I only want to go back to school for lunch and recess."