On Wednesday, August 19, 2026, the Western Prelacy Armenian Schools opened their doors to welcome students for the 2026–2027 academic year, bringing renewed energy and enthusiasm to school campuses following nearly two months of summer recess. The excitement of the new beginning was shared by administrators, faculty members, returning and new students of all ages, and their parents.
H.E. Archbishop Kegham Khacherian, Prelate of the Western Prelacy of the United States, welcomed the new academic year at Rose and Alex Pilibos Armenian School in Hollywood, accompanied by Archpriest Fr. Vicken Vassilian, Pastor of St. Garabed Armenian Apostolic Church of Hollywood. The Prelate expressed his great happiness upon seeing the bright smiles and cheerful faces of the four essential pillars of the Armenian School: administrators, teachers, students, and parents. Also in attendance at the opening ceremony were Executive Council members Mr. Ronni Gharibian and Dr. Kaloust Agopian, as well as Board of Regents representative Pattyl Aposhian.
In his remarks marking the beginning of the new academic year, Archbishop Khacherian first gave glory to God for granting students, educators, administrators, and parents a safe and successful return to school. The Prelate then commended the entire Rose and Alex Pilibos Armenian School family for its dedication and diligence and expressed his appreciation to the parents and grandparents for the sacrifices they continue to make and the trust they place in the Armenian School. Concluding his remarks, Archbishop Khacherian wished everyone a productive academic year filled with continued success, growth, and new achievements.
Following the ceremony, Archbishop Khacherian, accompanied by Archpriest Fr. Razmig Khatchadourian, Pastor of Holy Martyrs Armenian Apostolic Church of Encino, visited Holy Martyrs Mary Cabayan Elementary School, where the enthusiasm surrounding the new school year was evident throughout the campus. Students and families celebrated the first day of school with a festive program featuring music and dance. On this occasion, the Prelate offered words of encouragement and commended the entire school community, including its students, parents, benefactors, and friends.
That same day, pastors serving the remaining communities of the Western Prelacy also welcomed students back to school with the words, “Welcome back, dear students,” and read the Prelate’s message prepared for the commencement of the new academic year.
The students’ smiles were contagious, and the happiness surrounding the return to school was evident on the faces of all those gathered. The reopening of the Western Prelacy Armenian Schools marked the beginning of another promising academic year and was equally a source of happiness for parents and grandparents. Many accompanied their beloved children and grandchildren to school, sharing in the warm and uplifting atmosphere that marked the first day of the new school year.
