School is In!

A cool, misty morning marked the return of about 6,600 students to city schools. At Evergreen School, balloons in the school colors lent a festive note to the welcome back.

Crossing guard Leroy Pershay was ready with his "STOP" sign, his safety vest, badge and ID. The 11-year veteran of crossing guard service was on the job at 7:30 a.m. to help both Evergreen students and high school students who cut through Evergreen's campus to Park Avenue.

New wood chips make the play area attractive and safe.

Many Evergreen students were wearing white shirts or blouses and black pants or skirts, the school uniform. Principal Wilson Aponte could be seen on the front steps with a broom and dustpan, giving that final, personal touch of readiness for the welcome to students and parents or guardians. Students assembled at the side of the building to be greeted and gathered in by their teachers.

Best wishes to all students and their families for a succcessful and happy school year!

--Bernice Paglia