From Nervous to Thriving: Clara's Journey Through Kindergarten

Clara Bogenpohl

Clara Bogenpohl started kindergarten this past fall at Oak Ridge Elementary School. She says before she went to kindergarten, she felt “nervous,” but now that she’s been in kindergarten for almost six months, she feels “great” about it. She especially loves outdoor recess time, when she gets to climb on a rocket-shaped jungle gym. She also enjoys going to After-School Adventure Club, where she does her homework, eats snacks and plays. During class time, she says she loves learning about teddy bears and tall teeth during the letter “T” week. Now that she’s used to kindergarten, she says it’s what she thought it would be.

Her advice to people who are starting something new is simple: “Don’t be nervous,” she says.

And to help someone who is nervous about beginning a new adventure, she extends these reassuring words: “It’s okay, I’ll be right behind you.”