First Day of School Goes Smoothly in Bloomfield Hills

The first day of the school year went rather well in buildings throughout the Bloomfield Hills Schools on Tuesday, officials said.

An occasional backpack was left on a bus and frenzied parents double parked on the lawns of some schools that, on other days, typically have ample parking. Overall, however, the start of the school year was a success.

"The first day is always an exciting time and about getting organized and ready to go," said district spokeswoman Betsy Erikson Brown, who reported no major problems with transportation or facilities late Tuesday morning.

Staff and parents said it was hard not to get caught up in the excitement the day brings.

"She screamed last week when she learned she got her first choice for teacher and has been looking forward to seeing her friends and the new children who will be in her class," Rica Lan said of her daughter, Jessica, who entered the fourth grade at Way Elementary on Tuesday.

"They get so excited that it really becomes fun."

Charlie Marchessault, a retired Bloomfield Township police officer who has gotten to know many of the students while working as a morning crossing guard, said he was impressed by the positive attitudes kids  showed heading into classes today.

"This is a great bunch of kids and I know a lot of them are happy to be back," he said. "It's a good feeling."