"Even as a kid I can remember thinking about wanting to be a teacher," Hurst said.
In the school auditorium, Principal Wurst continued a long-standing tradition, reading to his new students.
Unlike many in his position, you'll seldom find him in the principal's office.
He's more frequently to on the playground or at lunch.
He credits the school environment for the reason his first graders are so well-adjusted.
"Yesterday, we had an open house where they came in and visited the classroom and saw where their desk was and met the teacher before the first day. Part of the fabric of our school is this feeling of security and belonging," Wurst said.
There were, of course, a few tears on the first day, but for the most part, it's been all good.
Principal Wurst will be missed by the teachers and students who've come to adore him.
"He has been here since I was here in kindergarten, so, I'm going to miss him a lot and I hope he has a great retirement and great years to come," fifth grader Tyrone Hodges said.
