Students offer advice ahead of new school year: 'Don't go to the principal's office'

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Tuesday marks the first day of school for many students across New Jersey and the Philadelphia suburbs, and families are ready. Store shelves are empty, backpacks are full, and students are stocked with supplies and style.

"I got two composition books," said Sophie, a fourth grader.

"I have a calculator for math," added Talia, who's starting seventh grade.

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Students are also arriving dressed for success.

"I bought baggy jeans and a few baggy shirts," said Braelyn Viola, heading into eighth grade.

"I bought some new sleep clothes because you need to sleep well when life is getting a little stressful," said Juliana Viola, an 11th grader.

While many children, parents and teachers say they're excited for a fresh start, others are wishing summer could last a little longer.

"I'm crashing out," said fourth grader Luke. "I'm mad."

Still, most agree that seeing friends again is the best part of going back.

"I like being with my friends," said Fiona, a sixth grader.

Before the first bell rings, students offered advice for a successful school year.

"Don't go to the principal's office," said Luke.

"Try hard," said Molly, a ninth grader. "If you don't, then you'll fail and have to take the grade again."

"Have fun. Don't be scared. It will be OK," added Kathy DeFeo from Havertown.