Monday marks first day back to school for students in Upper Darby, Bensalem

UPPER DARBY, Pennsylvania (WPVI) -- From Upper Darby High School to Highland Park Elementary, school is back in session in the Upper Darby School District.

"I'm starting second (grade), and I'm hoping to learn a lot of things," said second-grader Azzizah Matthews.

"She woke up at 5 o'clock this morning, 'I'm going to school today!' So that made me happy," said father Akeen Matthews.

Dad is thrilled to be by her side.

"It means a lot to me. I work so much, I never get a chance to take my daughter to school. So, the first day it means a lot to me today," Matthews said.

Parents and kids alike said they have been looking forward to this first day.

Summer relaxation is fun, but it's time for the next chapter.

"Getting back out the house, getting to communicate with people, get back to learning," said parent Rasheed Garrison.

First-grader Talibullah Tarif explained what he is most excited about: "Making new friends."

As for third-grader Jamill Garrison, "I'm really interested in math. I love math."

Upper Darby School District is home to the "Royals", and Highland Park principal Joanne Devito dressed the part in a crown and cape.

"The first day of school is always so exciting," said Devito.

"Remember to follow our 'Be's'- be safe, be respectful, be responsible, and always, always, be kind and be royal," Devito said.

In a letter welcoming back families across the district, superintendent Daniel McGarry renewed his call for a collective effort between home and school to promote the best learning environment.

Last spring, the superintendent sent out a district-wide email calling for support after a rise in physical altercations to and from school and on buses.

The superintendent also shared details about the district's new CrisisGo Safety Mobile App, used to disseminate emergency management information. Alerts are now available to parents and community stakeholders through the mobile app.

For students in Bensalem, it's a staggered start. The first day of school for students in grades 2 to 6, 8, and 10 to 12 is Monday.

Those students will not attend tomorrow when the rest come in. On Wednesday, all students will come together.

There's an update on bus service in Pottstown, where school started last week. Bus service will resume Monday, but riders must sign a behavior contract.

CMD Services says its drivers refused to take the East End Route because of student misbehavior. The contract includes assigned seats. and prohibits food, gum, drinks, music and abusive language. The deadline for students to sign off is this Thursday.