Broward County students attend first day of school

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (WSVN) -- A new school has opened its doors in Broward County as students across the county reported for their first day of classes.

Roughly 204,632 Broward County Public Schools students reported to class Monday

The district hired 931 additional teachers for the 2012-13 school year, including art, music and sports teachers.

Many students were enthusiastic about the first day of school. "I had fun," one young student said.

His mother said, "We had a little meltdown, because I didn't realize he was having a teacher change, so he was a little confused this morning, but they said he got through the day as soon as they started doing all the games and circle time activities."

"I liked it because I have a nice teacher," said another student.

"It's always exciting," Broward School Board member Ann Murray said. "I've been in the school system for 40 years, and the opening of school is such an exciting time. Parents are eager to get the students back in here. The children come bright-eyed and bushy-tailed."

Some Miami Heat players added to the excitement of the first day of school, handing out school supplies to students at Orange Brook Elementary.

On Saturday, opening ceremonies took place for the first military academy ever in South Florida, which was up and running on Monday. About 150 Hollywood Hills High School students will attend the school's new military academy this year. "They will be taking honors courses, advanced placement courses that will prepare them. By the time they finish their four years, they will have been able to accomplish almost two years' worth of college work," said one woman.

However, there were issues with bus transportation in Broward County Schools. "This doesn't make any sense!" one parent exclaimed. "It's hot as hell!"

Thousands of parents and students waited outdoors in the Sunday afternoon heat at school district transportation centers because there was a delay in the delivery of bus schedules. A parent said, "We were informed by his teachers on Friday afternoon that he may not have bus service for school starting on Monday."

Broward Schools Superintendent Robert Runcie is attempting to revamp the transportation department. "When I came to this district, transportation was $50 million over-budget every year," he said, "so that's not a situation that we will continue to accept."

There are about 1,039 Broward County school buses that transport 84,000 students daily. Superintendent Runcie promises that the transportation issues will be resolved.

If you are having transportation issues, please call (754) 321-4480.

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