LAURINBURG — Khloe Blue could barely contain herself Monday morning.
The pre-kindergarten student was eagerly looking forward to the first day of the 2017-18 school year.
“She was just so excited this morning,” said Khloe’s aunt, Lilly Pridgen. “She already knows her ABCs, numbers, colors and all of that,” Pridgen said. “I’m hoping she is going to make some great new friends.”
Enthusiasm for Day One seemed to be contagious. Educators and staff were excited too, according to Meredith Bounds, public information officer for the county schools.
Before Monday’s school start, many educators arrived earlier and took a last walk around the school before the students arrived and reminded themselves that “it is going to be a great year.”
Bounds described the start of school as one of the best.
“We say it every year, but it just keeps getting better and better,” she said. “Things have gone really smoothly today.”
Scotland County welcomed approximately 6,000 students into the doors of 11 schools, with more than 400 teachers ready to educate new and returning students. It was also the first day for most students in traditional schools across North Carolina.
“District administrators have been out visiting all the schools today and by all accounts, teachers and students are excited and everything went unbelievably smoothly,” Bounds said. “We just anticipate this being a good sign for a great year.”
Tonya DeBerry, who is in her second year of teaching second grade at North Laurinburg School, agreed.
“They are excited to learn and I have a lot that want to talk about science and that was amazing,” Deberry said.
Taleicia Beals, a second grader at North Laurinburg said she enjoyed her return to school Monday.She said she looks forward to seeing old friends and making new ones.
“My favorite part of the day was learning about science and math.” Beals said.
Local law enforcement will be out and about near schools making sure drivers are following the school zone speed limit. They’ll also be patrolling near busy roads and intersections to make sure drivers follow school bus stop laws.
