MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) – Parents had to be extra patient Wednesday morning as back-to-school traffic and lines to drop off kids can be challenging. Students didn’t let it all bother them – no first-day jitters here.
“What are you looking forward to?” – “School,” said Kinley North. “Like meeting the teachers, getting to know the kids and learning.”
“We are so excited that today is the first day of school. It’s like a Happy New Year – even a Merry Christmas because our children are coming back into the building,” said Azure Wells, principal of Eichold Mertz Elementary School.
On that first day back, Mobile County Public Schools Superintendent Chresal Threadgill not only made his rounds but also sat in class with students.
“Everyone is ready for a brand new year,” Threadgill said.
The 2024-25 school year brings new security commitments and policies. The Mobile County Public School System has invested in advanced weapons detection systems to keep firearms and other weapons off school grounds.
“Safety is the most important thing in a school system. Students, teachers and staff should feel safe and our goal is to do everything possible to ensure that,” Threadgill said.
Baldwin County Public Schools students will return to school on Thursday (July 8), with safety precautions in place as well. Security forces from the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office and other agencies are on standby.
While it may be difficult to return to normal life, teachers can’t wait to teach and nurture these young minds.
“At Chastang-Fournier, they can expect excellent instruction – that’s our focus – we strive for new heights. And we want them to know that we are a partnership and that we care about each student – no matter what their deficit is – and make sure the child receives a quality education,” said Veronica Coleman, principal of Chastang-Fournier.
Let’s keep up the momentum and attitude we had on day one – all year long!
“Every first day of school is so wonderful – so full of energy – our teachers and staff have worked so hard,” said Stephanie Malcom, reading specialist at Semmes Elementary.
Meanwhile, Baldwin County Public Schools officials are asking drivers to be patient – especially in the car lines – with first-graders and parents. They say it usually takes about a week to get into a rhythm.
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