Danville kicks off 2021-2022 school year; students return to class

Danville, Va. — There is always something special about the first day back to school after summer vacation.

That is especially true this year because last August, the first day of school was spent on a computer screen.

The first day back was smooth sailing in Danville.

Nearly 4,200 of the district's 5,000 students returned to the classroom.

About 850 students opted to attend Danville's Virtual Academy.

"For some of our students, they hadn't been in a school, ever. For some of our kindergartners and our first-graders, it's been over 500 days since they have actually been inside the school, so our teachers are excited to have them," said Johnson Elementary Principal Kevin Bowman.

Bowman says the first day is one of the busiest but best days of the year.

SEE ALSO:Bedford County Schools to require students to wear masks

With COVID-19 still impacting the region, there will be a number of safety measures in place this year.

• Everyone must wear a face mask inside the school and on the bus.
• Students will maintain 3 to 6 feet of social distancing.
• Many classrooms still have plexiglass dividers between desks.
• The only time masks will be optional this school year will be at outdoor sporting events, like football.

"For the most part, face-to-face allows for social interaction. It allows us to support children when they are successful and celebrate and certainly redirect when they are not being successful," said Superintendent Dr. Angela Hairston.

As students got off the bus Monday, they had their masks on as required by the district.

SEE ALSO:Masks required for all at Lynchburg City Schools, regardless of vaccination status

Parents seem to be on board with the requirement, saying they want what is best for their child.

Drivers are reminded to keep an eye out as your driving, especially near neighborhood bus stops, and watch your speed in school zones.

Some school zones have speed limits as low as 15 mph.