From its youngest learners in Pre-K to seniors in high school, Penfield Central School District opened its doors to more than 4,600 students on Tuesday, Sept. 2.

District employees have worked hard all summer to prepare for the first day, and over the course of the last few weeks, students were able to set up their lockers, walk their schedules, and meet their teachers. Freshmen at Penfield High School spent an afternoon in Orientation, learning the ropes of life in high school.

Standing by their side, proud parents had plenty of advice to help quell any nerves.

“Work hard, have fun, and enjoy the next four years,” said parent Michaela Wall to her daughter, Keiara.

Kate Torok agreed, giving similar advice to her daughter, Paige. “Take it all in, get involved, and have fun because it goes by very fast,” she said.

Karl Dubash, who attended Orientation with his son, Jason, offered practical words of wisdom. “Be open-minded, follow your schedule, put your head down, and do your work,” he advised. “Everything will work itself out.”

At Indian Landing Elementary School, the first day included smiles and high fives as teachers and staff welcomed students into the building, while helpful older students escorted their younger peers to classrooms, proud to show them their new home away from home.

Over at Cobbles Elementary School, Principal Nicole Whitehead gave presentations on proper lunchtime etiquette, including the polite way to select menu options (say please to accept and no thank you to decline) and the perils of running with a tray full of food (it would be bad, one kindergartener chimed in). In the art room, older students were already flexing their creative muscles, coloring in a banner to be displayed during Open House later this month.

“The first day of school is one of my favorite days of the year as it ushers in new opportunities for students to engage in academic exploration, pursue their interests, and build community,” said Dr. Tasha Potter, Superintendent of the District. “We are excited to welcome students back into our classrooms for what we know will be year of exceptional growth and learning.”