SHELBY COUNTY, Tenn. (localmemphis.com) – Thousands of Shelby County School students showed up for the first day of class Monday, and teachers and staff across the district worked to make the day special.
The 250 students at Delano Optional Elementary School got a warm welcome to start the school year.
Teachers lined the walkway cheering them on with lots of hugs and smiles hoping to get kids excited and comfortable about the first day of school.
“We want them to feel great about coming to school on the year. We want them to be anxiously anticipating all of the great things that are going to be coming,” said Delano Optional Elementary School Principal Shadonica Scruggs.
Principal Scruggs says making kids excited for the first day ensures a successful start.
“When the kids are excited and they want to learn then it’s much easier for us to convey the various things that we need,” said Scruggs.
SCS board members and Superintendent Dr. Joris Ray traveled in the student-style this morning, with a bus stop at Delano.
“We wanted to create the excitement for the first day of school. We’re visiting probably 10 schools today,” said SCS Superintendent Dr. Joris Ray.
This is the first full school year for the superintendent, and improving literacy ahead of third grade he says will be the district’s main priority.
“If your child can’t read by third grade, it’s very difficult for them to succeed so we’re putting emphasis on reading. That’s why it’s so important for our parents to read, read, read,” said Dr. Ray.
After a star-worthy entrance, Delano held a rally to continue that excitement into the classrooms.
“It’s going to be a great year!”