A school bus driver and aide wave from inside the bus on the first day of school

On Monday, the sun peeked over the horizon as the seniors of Palmetto High School gathered together. It was their last first day, and the air buzzed with a mix of excitement and nostalgia. With their character backpacks in tow, they watched the sunrise together—one final tradition to kick off their final year.

Four high school seniors wearing backpacks nostalgic from childhood including Sonic, Spiderman and more.

(Photo Credit ~ above ~ Jamie Blatt)

A few miles east at Blackburn Elementary School, the first day of school brought a beautiful mix of nervous butterflies and excited smiles as students and families arrived at Blackburn Elementary to kick off a brand new school year!

A mom and daughter hug on the first day of school.

Our amazing school bus drivers and bus aides were out early, safely delivering students ready to learn, grow, and make new memories.

A school bus driver and aid wave from inside a school bus

A big thank you to our local first responders for being out in school zones this morning, reminding everyone to slow down, stay alert, and keep our kids safe.

First responders out on the road with signs reminding drivers to please slow down.

Along with the district's Safety Guardians, our schools are under the watchful care of dedicated School Resource Officers, helping to keep everyone safe throughout the school year.

school resource officers sitting on wooden benches at a school.

Across town, the energy was just as electric at Louise R. Johnson K-8 School of International Studies, where the Eagles were stretching their wings for a fresh start. On the menu for the first day - a healthy breakfast in the cafeteria.

a child points to the variety of healthy breakfast options in the cafeteria line.

Some little ones clutched backpacks that still looked too big, while older students greeted each other with hugs and high-fives. From nervous kindergartners to confident eighth graders, everyone was ready to soar.

Three eighth graders smiling while standing with their favorite educator and athletic director, Mr. Brackman

Whether they were Tigers embracing old traditions, Eagles reaching for new heights, or Bolts charging into fresh beginnings, students across all three schools stepped into the year with courage, curiosity, and the promise of unforgettable memories.

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