Kids aglow at A.G Richardson Elementary

Lots of big smiles and bright new clothes marked the first day of school at A.G. Richardson Elementary.

“You know, I haven’t heard anyone say they weren’t happy to be back,” Principal Susan Bridges said as she watched students and parents file past her into the school. “It’s been smooth.”

This year, about 560 kindergarteners through fifth-graders will call the school home. That number is down from last year by about 180, Bridges said.

“I’m happy, very happy,” said parent Amy Hunter, who was dropping off her third-grade son D’Ago at his classroom.

Hunter said the anticipation extended to her other son, Diaz, who was also excited about his first-ever day in kindergarten.

“You don’t think this is fun?” another mom asked her son, who seemed to study the flurry of activity in the halls with hesitation.

“I see you’re smiling,” Assistant Principal Jane Hall told the other woman. Both laughed.

With a bright red whistle and identification badge dangling from her neck, Bridges greeted many of the students and parents by name, and extended warm greetings to everyone. She said about 40 percent of the students are returning to the school.

“The others I have to get know,” she said. “This is an important day.”