Schools were buzzing with excitement throughout the Covington County School District as students and teachers returned to class Monday.

The first day of school, while hectic, is a new opportunity for students and staff alike, principals said.

Straughn Elementary Vice Principal Barry Wood said, “It’s been a very busy day, but it’s very exciting. From our new Early Learning Center to our new math program, it should be a big year for us as a school.”

The finishing touches are going on a $1.7 million Early Learning facility, which will soon house pre-K and Kindergarten classes.

Pleasant Home Vice Principal Amber McKathan also looked forward to the year ahead.

She said, “It’s going great for a first day. There’s a lot of excitement in the teachers and students to begin learning and growing.”

McKathan said she is thrilled that Pleasant Home now offers transportation for dual enrollment students who enroll in technical programs on LBWCC’s Opp campus.

Fleeta Junior High School Principal Seth Richards said, “We are eager to get a routine going. We have some new employees that bring a lot of great things to the table and we are excited for the different ideas we have come up with for school improvement.”

Florala High School Principal Max Whitaker took in the first day in stride. He said, “It was a typical first day. Everything ran smoothly and the teachers did well helping the kids settle back in.”

This year he expects to continue with the same academic success Florala has seen in years past while improving athletically. “I expect a big year for this school,” Whitaker said.