First day back for Philadelphia public school students

MOUNT AIRY (WPVI) -- As students begin a new year in the Philadelphia public schools, Schools Superintendent Dr. William Hite says he is feeling optimistic.

The state budget secured over the summer ensures that the city's public schools will get $50 million more this year than last.

Among other things, counselors and nurses have been added to the staff.

"It's nice having the state budget to start the year," Hite told Action News. "It's nice not having to send individuals who are standing in front of students a letter (saying), 'We may not be able to pay you next month.'"

Philadelphia Schools Superintendent says this is the most optimistic he's been since he became superintendent.

That's good news for the Gordon family in the Mount Airy section of Philadelphia.

Action News was there as Tabitha Gordon got ready for her first day as a seventh grader.

Tabitha woke up surprised to find us, our microphone and our camera in her room. She was a good sport about the big surprise.

Both Tabitha and her mom said they know they'll have to get back into the swing of getting up early every day, now that summer vacation is over.

Action News reporter Katherine Scott was at one student's house as she started her day.

Tabitha told us she is looking forward to the new school year and hopes her teachers will be happy to teach her.

The official bell-ringing was set to take place later Wednesday morning at her school, the Hill Freedman World Academy.