Nervous kindergarteners clutched their parents. Middle schoolers welcomed friends after a summer that seemed to go way too quickly. And seniors walked through the front doors of their high schools for their last first days.
More than 11,300 students across Williamsburg and James City County went back to school on Monday to start the 2024-25 school year.
It’s a year that starts with a new cell phone ban, along with continued uncertainty about whether the school system that’s operated jointly for decades will separate. But for teachers, staff and students on Monday, it was all about smiles and anticipation as another year of learning began across the division’s 16 schools.
At Laurel Lane Elementary, students were greeted with cheers from the William & Mary field hockey and women’s soccer teams.
Messages of encouragement and good luck were chalked on the walkway into J. Blaine Blayton Elementary.
“Welcome to a new school year full of exciting possibilities!” read the WJCC Schools’ welcome back message to students and families. “As always, our focus is on student success, growth and achievement. We are continuing our journey toward excellence and marking milestones along the way. What remains steadfast is our commitment to exceptional education. This year will be an exciting year.”
