The first day of school can be both an exciting and stressful occasion for children and parents alike. Exciting because it's a milestone, stressful because it means separation. In most families, it causes butterflies and even some tears.

Wednesday was the first day of school in Mariposa County.  Kids greeted old friends with shouts and even some hugs.  Teachers and parents chatted while small students hefted large backpacks. A big
yellow bus pulled up and off popped kids ready for another school year.

Fathers and mothers  with camcorders and cameras followed closely behind small kids fidgeting a bit in their new school clothes.  Most of the older kids were already playing on the playground, but a few younger students held on tight to their Moms. 

When the whistle blew the older students lined up by grade and teachers helped the kindergarteners find their place.  One mother said a little sadly "They already have them standing in line"  The principal introduced new students and then informed the 6th graders that they were to look after the kindergarteners.  The older students then went over and introduced themselves to the little ones.  Some of them even shook hands with the little guys. 

The pledge of allegiance to the flag was said and then the students were dismissed to go to their classrooms  Most of the parents of kindergarteners followed along as they were taken to their classroom.