First day of school brings new year of promise to local students

CAMDEN, N.J. (WPVI) -- Students at KIPP Lanning Square Primary School didn't show any signs of first-day nerves as they walked through the doors on Wednesday, and staff greeted them with hugs.

"Hi beautiful, how was your summer?" one staff member said.

Families paused for back-to-school photos against the backdrop, while students shared their goals for the months ahead.

"I'm ready to learn math," said Trishdyn, a Mastery student.

Across Camden, Public School Superintendent Alfonso Llano spent the morning knocking on doors to encourage families to enroll their children and maintain strong attendance throughout the year.

"We're ready to receive you with open arms," Llano said. "But we want you to come back every single day. Attendance matters tremendously. Every day that you miss, that's two days almost to catch up, so come to school every day."

In the Old City neighborhood of Philadelphia, Mastery Charter School's Lenfest Campus welcomed 7th through 12th graders back to class.

Students and staff marked both the first day of school and the campus's 25th anniversary.

At Global Leadership Academy in West Philadelphia, administrators and staff energized students standing in line for high-fives.

Philadelphia public schools begin classes on Monday. Camden public schools start next Thursday.