Tuesday, September 8, marked the start of a new school year at the Brookville Center for Children’s Services (BCCS), as students returned to the classroom, met teachers and classmates, and settled into the routines that will shape the months ahead.
At Barbara C. Wilson Preschool, Round Hill Road Preschool, and the Children’s Education Center, September also brought an important milestone: attending school for the very first time.
For many students, the school day began with the bus ride to campus. BCCS staff were there every step of the way, helping children safely on and off the bus and welcoming them to their new surroundings. These early moments marked the beginning of the relationships and the routines that support learning throughout the year.
In East Hills, the Round Hill Road team organized a special welcome morning to help introduce parents to the school.
“That morning we had a welcome room for socializing with staff,” Paula DeVita, Director, said. “We have mostly new parents. We let the parents know what to expect and addressed questions they might have being first time parents in the school. We got a lot of positive feedback from parents about the program.”
At BCW, the Parent Association added some first-day fun, decorating the school with balloons, back-to-school displays, photo areas, and plenty of bubbles to greet children and families. Each child also received a sticker sheet as a first-day surprise.
“The Barbara C. Wilson Preschool Parent Association was excited to welcome our children back to school with a fun and colorful celebration,” said Malorie Edme, PA President. “Our goal was to create a warm and welcoming environment where every child and family feels a sense of belonging and community at BCW.”
At the Children’s Education Center, returning students were happy to see their classmates and teachers again. Many greeted their favorite teachers with hugs and high fives as soon as they got off the bus, while teachers helped new students become comfortable with their classrooms and daily routines.
“It was a great day,” said Tonia Iadevaia, Music Therapist. “They were really excited to be back. We were really excited to be back. There were some kids who have never been in school before, and they were a little nervous, a little apprehensive, but overall, they were really excited, and it was a nice day.”
With the first-day transitions underway, classrooms are already looking ahead to a year of learning, connection, and shared experiences. At the Children’s Education Center, plans are taking shape for fall favorites like the Halloween parade, Thanksgiving crafts, and December holiday celebrations.
We look forward to all the great memories and moments that students, families, and staff will share this school year.
