Kindergarten families heading to Sprucewood Elementary on Wednesday, Aug. 19, won't have to wipe away tears alone.

The school is hosting "Kindergarten WooHoos and BooHoos," a gathering that invites parents to linger after dropping off their children on the first day of kindergarten. The idea: meet other families navigating the same milestone, share the emotions and, if needed, find a hug from someone who gets it.

In a posting on the school's website, staff acknowledged that the first day can bring a full range of emotions and told parents they don't have to face them alone. The school, led by Principal Dr. Ashley Lennox, sits at 12025 S. 1000 E. on the Sandy/Draper border and serves many Draper-area families through Canyons School District.

Kindergartners across the district start two days after older students, who returned Monday, Aug. 17. The staggered schedule gives the youngest learners their own spotlight as they join the school community as kindergarten Falcons, as Sprucewood calls its students.

The gathering is part of a broader district culture of welcoming celebrations. The Canyons Board of Education noted in August 2025 that school communities were planning red-carpet welcomes and back-to-school events to cheer the start of the year. As we reported Aug. 8, nearby Willow Springs Elementary held its own red-carpet welcome for returning students on Monday.

No specific start time has been announced for the kindergarten gathering, but it coincides with morning drop-off on Aug. 19. Families with questions can reach Sprucewood at (801) 826-9475.