Several parishes in Acadiana are back in school Thursday morning for the start of the 2019-2020 school year.
Acadia, St. Mary, St. Landry and Vermilion Parishes were up bright and early to make it to class for the first bell. KATC was there for the first day and will have reactions from students, parents and teachers as they began a new year of learning.
We will have more on the excitement during our 5, 6, and 10 pm newscasts.
In Acadia Parish, Superintendent Scott Richard says that Acadia Parish had smooth opening on the first day of school.
The superintendent visited 13 of the 26 schools in the parish and plans to visit the remaining schools on Friday. He says that the parish saw a fantastic first day and he is hopefull that this indicates a great 2019-2020 school year.
Richard says that he is very thankful for the "fantastic staff and teachers in the parish" for helping facilitate a smooth opening.
This year, Richard says technology is going to play a major role in how students learn in the coming years.
"As tech changes the way we learn, parents can expect the kids to learn more about technology and experience hands on technology," said Richard.
In St. Landry Parish, they've been working on improvements to buildings and upgrading technology. Due to budget issues, they've changed a few things in Opelousas, including the need to close two schools and rearrange student attendance zones.
Superintendent Patrick Jenkins says the school system is ready to provide a quality education for students and bring parents, the community, and partnerships.
In St. Mary Parish, the Sheriff's Office reminded drivers of the expected traffic congestion in the parish. The sheriff's office hopes that teachers and students have a great year.
"Students, school is starting. You are going to get out of it exactly what you put into it," remarked Sheriff Blaise Smith. "Be safe and learn all that you can," Sheriff Blaise Smith said.
Superintendent Teresa Bagwell said that St. Mary Parish school had a "very smooth start."
She added that all students got to school and home safely and teachers were ready to greet them when they arrived.
Bagwell said that there were no snags on Thursday and that the "kids are excited" for the new year.
For a list of when students go back to school in each parish, click here.
