Students in Indian River and Okeechobee counties are headed back to school Wednesday.
The first day of school is an exciting day for students who are both eager and anxious for what's ahead.
Wednesday morning Indian River County Schools Superintendent Dr. Mark Rendell welcomed bus drivers back on their routes. This is Rendell’s second year as superintendent.
Rendell said this year will be full of opportunities and challenges. He said the first day is about making students feel at home and easing their fears.
The same goes for teachers, bus drivers and other school staff that have been preparing for the school year.
“Kids are excited to come back to school but we want to make sure that they know we’re excited that they’re back at school,” Rendell said. “We believe in them, and we believe they can succeed.”
Rendell feels like the bond teachers make with their students will lead to their success.
Teachers face added pressures from the federal and state government each year, and he wants to provide more support to them.
“They’re the ones on the front line, they’re the ones who are actually facing most of these additional challenges and burdens. So, we need to make sure that we support them, not only emotionally, but financially,” said Rendell.
The Indian River County School Board reached an agreement with teachers last year: three years with a $900 increase each year.
A reminder for drivers hitting the road Wednesday, school zones will be in place in both Indian River and Okeechobee counties.
Officers and deputies will be out enforcing the speed limit in those areas. Also watch out for children in your neighborhood.