BIBB COUNTY, Ga. — The first day of school is always filled with excitement and a host of other emotions, especially this morning when students made their way into the brand new Springdale Elementary School in Bibb County.
Some parents like Elliott and Ashlee Woods couldn’t help feeling mixed emotions. Their son Jack is going into Pre-K.
"It's a bittersweet day,” Woods said. “Our baby is going to Pre-K but the new school is beautiful and we're excited to be part of the Bibb County School system this year."
According to Principal Cami Hamlin, almost 600 students are enrolled at Springdale Elementary this year. A few grandparents came along to give a first day farewell too.
"So excited, but the tears can't be stopped," Mavis James said.
Hamlin said the county used Education-SPLOST funds to build the new school, which costs about $26 million. She said having students back is exciting.
"My favorite day of the year,” Hamlin said. “I love when students come and fill up the school."
And she isn't the only one. Springdale paraprofessional Missy Deerman's top priority for the morning was greeting students on their way in the door.
"I love kids and I want them to like school,” Deerman said. “And if they can see somebody happy wishing them, helping them to have a good day, that's all it takes."
It's a new beginning in a new building. Above the energy, Springdale teacher Tammy Toth said they are looking forward to enjoying the school's inviting layout.
"I love the openness of it,” Toth said. “And I love the community it's going to create in the different hallways."
Hamlin says the only part of the school still being worked on is the playground in the back.
Principal Hamlin said Springdale Elementary will hold a public ribbon-cutting on September 6 to celebrate the new school.