WEST ORANGE, NJ - It was back to school for West Orange Public School students on Sept. 6, and despite the sweltering temperatures, there was excitement and smiles.

Superintendent Jeff Rutzky spent the day visiting the district's 12 schools. He began his morning at Gregory Elementary School, where he welcomed students, staff, and parents along with new Principal Makeida Estupiñan and new Assistant Principal Dwayne McNeil.

Returning Kelly students received a special message from West Orange's hometown astronauts, Mark and Scott Kelly:

Students,

 

"Welcome back!  We hope you had a wonderful summer and if you are new to Kelly Elementary School it’s great to have you as part of the crew. Education is a mission and you need to be focused but we also want you to have fun too. We started in the 2nd grade in that same building in 1972. The school you attend today got us on a path that led to the stars.  We got a great education there and you will too. So pay attention to your teachers.  They know what they are doing.  If you need extra help you should always ask. Best of luck for the 2018-2019 school year. " 

 

Mark and Scott

 

Special new parent events followed morning drop-off and were held at several elementary schools. Busing appeared to be in full swing.

To see all the photos from Back to School across the West Orange School District, go here.

(Photo order: WOHS, Gregory, Washington, St. Cloud, Kelly, Liberty, Mt. Pleasant, Redwood, Hazel.)

(L-R) Gregory Assistant Principal Dwayne McNeil, Assistant Superintendent Eveny de Mendez, Superintendent Jeff Rutzky, Gregory Principal Makeida Estupiñan.

Parents get emotional waving goodbye to children.

 Mrs. Estupiñan welcomes students into the building.