Smiles For Start Of School

In a scene repeated across Clarkstown at its 10 elementary schools on Tuesday morning, a steady stream of school buses and vans, cars and parents walking with children moved through the entrance of the West Nyack Elementary School. Despite the gray skies and threat of rain, children were all smiles as they got off buses or held their parents’ hands and neared the school for their for the 2012-2013 school year. 

Second grader Angel Lemus of West Nyack said he was “excited” to go to school.

His older sister, Lourdes, was more hesitant and said she would have liked to have had a longer summer break.  The incoming fourth grader chose science as her favorite subject.

As some parents milled around the entrance under a “Welcome Back” banner after dropping off their children, they greeted others walking with youngsters who were chattering excitedly or smiling nervously. 

Third grader Katherine Forest of West Nyack said she was “very excited” about returning to school.  Her younger brother, William, was going for his first day of kindergarten.

Alex Ponce of West Nyack spoke about entering second grade.

“I feel excited and it’s my first day,” he said, adding his favorite part of the school day is “when we go out for recess.”

How did your child’s first day of school go? Share your photos with Patch.