SAUGUS — Students started classes at the town’s public schools on Wednesday, marking a return to normal, of sorts.
While everyone was required to wear a mask in the building, the days of remote learning are in the past. Everyone got to sit at a comfortable school desk in the same room as their teacher.
For new Superintendent of Schools Erin McMahon, Wednesday was an exciting day for her and the entire school district.
“We are delighted to see the Saugus students and teachers return for the start of school,” she said. “We thank our educators, the Town of Saugus, our partners, and the Saugus leadership team for their work to open up the school year. In partnership with families, we look forward to developing a sense of belongings across all three buildings this school year.”
However, there are some obstacles that the school district will have to deal with. The Saugus Middle-High School is dealing with a sinkhole in its parking lot, which has eliminated some parking capabilities. School Committee Chairman Tom Whittredge told The Item that the district is also dealing with a shortage of bus drivers.
“We only have two buses instead of the four that we were contracted for,” he said. “It’s going to throw a monkey wrench into the traffic flow unfortunately.”
Despite these challenges, Whittredge said that he saw lots of happiness in the town’s public school students on Wednesday.
“All of the kids that I saw were very happy to be back in school; most of the parents were very happy as well,” he said. “The first day is always trial and tribulations; once we get past the traffic issue, we will be in great shape.”
