Monday was back to school for many school districts across Delaware County, including the students at Beverly Hill Middle School in Upper Darby.
As students arrived, they exchanged hugs and smiles as friendships were renewed with classmates whom they may not have seen over the summer.
Beverly Hills Principal Wayne Remmey, who is heading into his fourth year as principal and 21st. year with the district, was there to welcome more than 1,450 students in grades six through eight.
“It’s been a crazy summer but we’re ready,” said Reemey. “We are so excited to welcome our students back for another great year of learning and growth.”
More than 1,450 students in grades six through eight attend Beverly Hill Middle School in Upper Darby. (PETE BANNAN-DAILY TIMES)
During the summer, the school district brought in new classroom furniture, desks and chairs as well as tiling and improving class entrances.
Remmey said the improvements create the best possible learning environment for students and over the past week the teachers have been preparing for the new year.
“As our students walk through the doors today, our teachers and staff look forward to seeing them embrace our core values of being responsible, being safe, being respectful and being gritty,” Remmey said. “We can’t wait to watch them grow, not only academically, but also as individuals who will make a positive impact in our school and in our community.”
Some renewed acquaintances Monday at Beverly Hill Middle School in Upper Darby with the first day of school. (PETE BANNAN-DAILY TIMES)
Youngsters flowed up the steps just before the first bell sounded and a steady flow of vehicles dropped students off out front.
Standing back were the parents, some getting a first-day-of-school photo and others letting go as their kids headed off to the secondary school, and a new phase in their education.
Jennifer Wivger watched as her daughter Julia, who is going into sixth grade made her way into school.
Wivger said her daughter was both nervous and excited.
“Once she get’s adjusted, she’ll be OK,” she said.
Donald Kahler watched as his daughter Jade met friends and headed back to class.
“She’s sad summer breaks over,” he said.
His son is at Upper Darby and is dual enrolled at Delaware County Community College, and SEPTA service cuts were going to present a problem.
He said he is hoping his son can take a shuttle bus that runs from the satellite campus at Barclay Square to the main campus.
“I’m nervous,” said Germina Sampaio who was starting sixth grade. Her father, Comi Sampaio, reassured her, adding that she is his only child and it’s a big day.
“After church yesterday, we went to do some shopping so she is ready,” he said.
Beverly Hill Middle School Principal Wayne Remmey directs a new student to class. (PETE BANNAN-DAILY TIMES)
Also watching their loved ones make their way was Luis Garcia who called to his son Luis Jr. to come get a photograph of the first day of school
“He didn’t even want me to take his picture. He’s with his friends from Aronimink,” Garcia said.
Luis Garcia Sr. gives his son Luis Jr. a kiss goodbye. (PETE BANNAN-DAILY TIMES)
The elder Garcia said he is trying to get a feel for the school and the larger number of students.
“I’m just concerned, watching the new students, the bigger students. A couple kids wearing the same clothes, is that a crew? Are they the troublemakers? I try to teach him, don’t worry about that stuff, worry about education,” Garcia said. “I want him to get his education and be smart.”
As the last student found their way into the building, parents headed home.
Those happy to have the their children out of the house only had a short break. Day 1 was a half day and the kids would be home by lunchtime.
Germina Sampaio with her father, Comi Sampaio, at Beverly Hill Middle School in Upper Darby. (PETE BANNAN-DAILY TIMES)