A welcoming sign inside of Buchanan Elementary School to new and returning students and staff.
By Matt de Simone
Botetourt County Public Schools welcomed students back last Wednesday to begin their studies for the 2022-23 school year.
BCPS Superintendent Dr. John Russ stated during last week’s School Board meeting that he believed the first day of the new school year was “overall, a superb opening.” Russ explained that he and Director of Operations Andy Dewease were able to visit all 12 school buildings.
A total number of 4,470 students were in their respective schools on opening day. Russ explained those numbers could fluctuate and feels the attendance numbers are in “good shape.” In terms of the number of students from the previous school year, Russ believes the student numbers to be up.
Mrs. Boone’s fourth grade class starts out the first day with the Pledge of Allegiance at Breckinridge.
Breckinridge fifth graders Emma Dalton (center) and Brianna Roper walk Emma’s brother Jacob (left) to Mrs. Firebaugh’s kindergarten class.
Troutville Elementary Principal Steven Anderson (left) and BCPS Superintendent Dr. John Russ stand under a “welcome back” sign inside of the school last Wednesday.
Haley Bailey, a Breckinridge fifth grade volunteer, helps Luke Avis find his classroom on the first day of school.
Greenfield Elementary School’s opening day faculty and staff are ready to start a new school year.
This Buchanan Elementary student was all smiles for the first day of school last Wednesday.
Eagle Rock Elementary School faculty members pose for a photo before Wednesday’s school session began. [SUBMITTED PHOTOS]