Students returned to school on Aug. 1, 2017 to teachers and school administrators eager to welcome students back after the summer break. 

At Robert Harvey Elementary School, Principal Dr. John I. Davis, III, and members of 2nd Mt. Olive Baptist Church -- one of the schools Partners in Excellence -- greeted students as they were dropped off by eager parents. 

"I love this school," parent Vontresa Stephens said. "My kids were excited yesterday about school starting back. You know its something when kids are excited about going to school." 

At Northside Elementary, Principal Katina Allen welcomed students back with staff eagerly cheering the students on in what she called a "mini pep rally." 

At Albany Middle, Dr. Frederick Polite brought over a tradition he had over at Southside Middle School, by having a cheering squad for students as they entered the building. 

Schools across the district rolled out the welcome mats for students Tuesday. Schools are working to provide an innovative and welcoming environment for students and staff. Some schools invited their partners and local community leaders to help welcome students back. 

Sherwood Acres Principal Yvette Simmons invited Dougherty County Sheriff Kevin Sproul to come welcome back students and to encourage them to get the year started off right.