E.J. Carter, a first grader at Willow Creek Elementary School in Nampa, arrived to school Tuesday morning sporting his new Nike shoes and first-day-of-school outfit. He kicked off first grade with a big smile on his face and ready to learn. When the bell rang, his parents left the classroom and he was already diving into a first day of school drawing project.

“E.J. has been excited for first grade all week until we arrived to school. He got nervous when we walked on campus,” said Kerri Carter, E.J.’s mother. “Once we got him situated his nerves calmed down and he was ready for the day.”

Willow Creek principal Scott Knopp said the first day of school is an exciting day for teachers, parents and students.

“It’s time to rock and roll,” Knopp said. “The enthusiasm of the job rises as soon as the kids walk-in.”

Rachal Messersmith made sure her second-grade daughter was prepared to have a successful first day.

“I’m excited for my daughter to get back in the classroom and excel. She wasn’t nervous at all and is thrilled to be back with her friends,” Messersmith said. “She is ready to read and get to a higher reading level.”

Principal Knopp wants to remind motorists to take notice of speed limits in school zones and to slow down and watch for children. According to Idaho State Police, when driving in a school zone, reduce your speed to the posted limit, which is typically 20 mph; speeding in a school zone could result in a $156.50 fine.

“We have a lot of kids walking, riding bikes and waiting for buses. We want to get everyone to school safe and sound, that is the priority,” Knopp said.

Have you entered the EdNews first day of school photo contest? Send us photos of the kiddos getting ready for class or at school. You could win $100, learn more.