MARTINSBURG — Students throughout the Eastern Panhandle said goodbye to summer break and headed back to school on Monday.
After several weeks of preparation, teachers were excited to welcome their new students for another year full of learning.
On Monday morning, Berkeley County Schools Superintendent Dr. Ryan Saxe and his team started their day at the bus garage, welcoming drivers back. As bus drivers performed their daily brake check routine and headed out to transport students, Saxe and his team held up signs and cheered them on. The signs reminded drivers of how important their job is in students’ lives and encouraged them to start the year off right.
“Our bus drivers are the first and last adults students see during the school year,” Saxe said. “It’s important to recognize their work and dedication to our students. They do a tremendous job safely transporting our students every day. We want to start the year right by thanking them for their hard work.”
Later in the day, Saxe also visited several schools to welcome students, including Opequon Elementary School, Eagle School Intermediate, South Middle School and more. Saxe also visited Hedgesville Middle School, where he helped serve lunch to seventh-grade students.
“We are excited to welcome students for another fantastic year of learning,” Saxe said. “So many Berkeley County Schools staff have been working tirelessly to make sure the first day of school goes out without a hitch. They have been working on maintenance, building renovations, classroom preparations and more, and all the right puzzle pieces are coming together for a great year.”
Jefferson County Schools also started off its school year on the right foot. For the past few weeks, teachers have participated in different events, such as the New Educator Orientation, to get ready for students and create an environment where students feel welcomed and cared for.
JCS posted a message on Facebook celebrating the first day of school, saying, “We’re excited to start another school year with our amazing students and staff. Seeing so many smiling faces today was the perfect way to begin. Let’s make it a great year!”
School staff everywhere are looking forward to a new year full of growth.
