By Janet Cruz

More than 200 students, along with teachers and staff, had their first day of classes at Havasu Preparatory Academy Wednesday.

“We had an amazing first day of school full of just positivity and excitement,” said Dana Mills, Principal at Havasu Preparatory Academy (HPA).

Principal Dana Mills hugs a student at HPA on the first day of school. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

The campus has 205 students currently enrolled along with one class per grade level. It is also staffed with a reading specialist and school counselor.

Students in Mr. Carlesso’s class pose for a photo on the first day of school at HPA. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

“I teach healthy character traits to all grade levels, said Jenny D’Uba, counselor at Havasu Preparatory Academy. We work with the little ones on their emotions, what they are and how to regulate them. They  also learn how to ask for what they need in a healthy way.”

HPA school counselor Jenny D’Uva poses for a photo in her office on the first day of school. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Once you enter D’Uva’s office you will come across sensory games, and weighted toys to help students cope with separation anxiety, and have a safe calming space if they ever need to visit her office.

Jenny D’Uva’s office at HPA on the first day of school. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Jenny D’Uva’s office at HPA. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

“I have a big red chair, whenever a student needs to sit and have a talk and items as great ice breakers,” said D’Uva.

Books and interactive games and flowers with a garden theme with bright colors also surround the space, and a wonder woman collection, along with animal characters.

Jenny D’Uva’s office at HPA. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

“Not only are the students learning all their academics today, they are also learning all their emotional intelligence as well and we help build that up,” said D’Uva.

For more information on Havasu Preparatory Academy visit https://www.havasuprepele.com/m/

Ms. H reads to Rhonda Stockwell’s first grade classroom at HPA. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Eighth-graders at HPA pose for a photo on the first day of school. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Third-grade students start learning on the first day of school at HPA Wednesday. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Teacher Crissie Russo poses for a photo in her indoor P.E. room on the first day of school at HPA. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Students play at recess at HPA Wednesday. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Students play during recess at HPA on the first day of school. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene