There were some tears and a lot of hugs, then Herndon Elementary School principal Carolyn Gannaway sent the weepy parents on their way so their youngsters could get to class.
Tuesday marked the first day of classes for students in most Fairfax County public schools and at Herndon the day began at 9 a.m. when Gannaway opened the doors to let the waiting students and parents spill into the hallway. After which,
many swamped the teachers and staff stationed in the halls helping students find their classrooms.
"It's wonderful. It's great to see the kids," Gannaway said. "They've grown so much over the summer."
Not everyone shared the principal's enthusiasm.
"Did you see their faces? Their sad, pouting faces?" said Michael Hunsaker as he snapped a photograph of his clan, Troy, Derek and Haley, before sending them inside for their first class.