The first day of the 2006-2007 school year went off without a on Friday as over 3,000 Bertie County students renewed old acquaintances, made new friends and, for the first time ever, students at the middle schools and high school sported a brand new look.

Uniforms made their debut and the sight of students dressed in khakis, dark blue bottoms, with tan, white, burgundy or gold shirts had everyone very impressed.

One of system’s high school principals called it the best opening day he had ever been a part of in his career.

Wayne Mayo, Principal at C.G. White Middle School, noticed a different atmosphere than in the past.

“Students were quiet, were extremely well behaved and were respectful of their peers, teachers and administrators.

I am completely satisfied with the initial results of the uniforms.”

Despite closing two elementary schools with the resulting re-routing of school buses, there were very few transportation glitches with students getting to school on time.

Even the buses seem to take on a refreshing look with students dressed so smartly riding along.

A successful first day of school doesn’t simply occur by itself, especially with a new administrative team in place at Bertie High School and C.G. White Middle School.

The administrators and principals have worked very hard and put in many extra hours beginning with the last day of the 2005-2006 school year to ensure a smooth opening.

Bertie County Public Schools have adopted a theme for the new school year n “A New Day.”

The emphasis for 2006-2007 will be on learning and high academic achievement of our entire student body. Events of last year forced administrators and principals to alter their focus onto issues not directly related to students and the classroom.

This year, heavy emphasis will be placed on curriculum, the North Carolina Standard Course of Study, lesson plans, classroom observation and, most importantly, strong support for teachers and principals.

“I would like to thank everyone for helping make this such a terrific start to the new year,” said BCPS Superintendent Dr. Nettie Collins-Hart. “To our students, thank you for showing that you are wonderful, well behaved, respectful young people with a bright future.

To our parents, thank you for showing your support to our schools.

To our community members, I also appreciate your support and your efforts in getting involved in education.

To our teachers, administrators and principals, thank you for your dedication and your belief in our children.

Dr. Collins-Hart closed by saying, “Remember, together we can.”