THE MORE THINGS CHANGE, THE MORE THEY STAY SAME: BACK TO SCHOOL 2015/16

Story and photos by BJ Greco

Under a warm September sun the 2015-16 school year got off to a great start at the South Orangetown Central School District. Students entered the buildings greeted by Principals, teachers, glistening floors and sparkling classrooms with each of the buildings boasting new updates and improvements. Students at the William O. Schaefer Elementary School climbed off the buses carrying their backpacks and, as usual, wondering what the day will bring. There were many smiles, reconnections with old friends and teachers, and memories of good times. There was also the trepidation of leaving mommy. Uh oh. There were the ever present toothless grins and those that couldn’t get into the building fast enough to begin the day and the year. Sometimes summers last too long when you’re six. Of course for some, the tears of reality were quickly washed away by the rapid banter of the teachers and the activities that awaited. Welcome to the first day of school (again).