Students return as new school year begins in Bay County

BAY COUNTY, Fla. ( WMBB ) – Monday was the first day of school for most of the counties in our viewing area. All of the campuses were buzzing with excitement as students returned to see their friends and classmates.

Superintendent Mark McQueen said he has high expectations for the new school year. Most students were nervous and excited to be back in school for the first day Monday.

But superintendent Mark McQueen and his staff have been working all summer on their plans for the academic year.

“We’re looking to really invest in our students. We’re talking about accountability and attendance, we’re looking at academic achievement arts in athletics. And we believe that all of those five a’s will really make a great learning experience for our students,” Superintendent Mark McQueen said.

Students fill the halls with backpacks, water bottles, and books. New students were welcomed by staff and students to show them the ropes of the school.

“We all welcome them with a smile on their face and our face. But we give them a tour of the school and we try to find one student that they can actually meet with and bond with. And then once they’ve got a hold of their teacher, then they’re fine,” Principal Glenda Nouskhajian said.

Hutchison Beach Elementary is entering the new school year as an “A” school. McQueen said from what he sees all the schools are showing growth.

“All of our schools are improving. And certainly here at Hutchinson Beach Elementary, they are now in a school that is really phenomenal, really. We’re celebrating the great academic achievement of all of our students here. The faculty and the staff have really poured in,” McQueen said.

Students are excited about their favorite classes and clubs.

“The club we have is boys or it’s got bolt. It stands for boys on the leadership team. Here we meet with everybody in the community, and we get taught leadership skills and then we go out and use them in public,” a Bay County student said.

School officials are stressing attendance and punctuality this year, so students will receive the full learning experience.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to mypanhandle.com.