New Sedona-Oak Creek School District Superintendent David Lykins stressed teamwork and the importance of a safe learning environment for students when he welcomed staff to the 2011-2012 school year.

“I’m anticipating a great year,” Lykins told staff members during a Monday, Aug. 8, morning assembly at the Sedona Performing Arts Center, located at Sedona Red Rock High School. The welcome-back assembly included raffles, a short team-building video and other activities. Students returned to regular classes Wednesday, Aug. 10.

Besides Lykins, brief speeches were offered by principals from West Sedona School, Big Park Community School and Sedona Red Rock High School.

Lykins told those at the assembly it was impossible to have a great school year without having a great first day.

“I know how hard our principals have been working with their leadership teams to make sure that first day, Aug. 10, is a great day for all the students of the Sedona-Oak Creek Unified School District. Our district office staff has been working hard this summer, too, in making sure that I’m ready for the first day and I really appreciate all their hard work in recognizing them along with all the principals.”

One of the biggest strengths for the district, he said, comes in the performance of the teaching staff.

“The magic of teaching in those classrooms is what makes the Sedona-Oak Creek Unified School District. Everyone else’s jobs, whether they’re Governing Board members, principals, support staff, district office staff, my job as the superintendent, is to do our jobs in order for you to be able to create that magic in your classrooms,” Lykins said.

Other factors for a successful district, he said, include strong community support, SOCSD support staff, technologically-advanced facilities, strong curriculums and more.

Challenges, he added, include wrapping up a four-year construction project, boosting enrollment and a 2012 district override that will be put to voters.

Big Park Principal Steve Gardner said the district has many challenges ahead and stressed teamwork among district employees.

“I think we’re going to be off to a good start this year,” Gardner said. “I would like to welcome everybody back. We have a lot to look forward to this year.”

West Sedona Principal Lisa Hirsch said that, despite staff reductions over the last several years, district employees continue to work hard.

She thanked the custodial staff at her school and others for their help preparing the school for the new year.