For students like kindergartners, and fifth-, seventh- and ninth graders, the first day not only brought a new school year, but also a new building in which to learn. For other students, it was back to business in a familiar environment.

“It feels good,” said Hoglan third grader Memphis Ericson on being back. “I’m excited because Mrs. (Hannah) Pfantz gives snacks and I love snacks.”

He said he is excited to see his friends, and was sitting at a table with two fellow students he had summer programming with.

“I’m excited about having the playground and seeing my friends from last year,” said Memphis’ classmate and friend Donae Garth. “I’m excited about my new teacher and my new classroom and new students.”

T-R PHOTO BY ADAM SODDERS – Two friends talk outside of Lenihan Intermediate School Monday, anticipating the doors opening and classes starting.

Both students said they had a lot of fun over the summer, Donae swimming at Marshalltown Aquatic Center and Memphis riding his dirt bike.

Down the road at Marshalltown High School, older students flooded the hallways around 8:30 a.m. to find their first class of the day. Among them were hundreds of freshmen students adapting to new surroundings.

“It’s kind of weird. It’s new,” said freshman Journee Blaylock.

Journee said she went to last week’s school open house night at the high school, but said she needs a little more time to get used to the building. She looks forward to being involved in volleyball, track and school plays.

“I’m excited for drama class,” Journee said.

Fellow freshman Micah Blevins is starting her first year in the district after going to Marshalltown Christian School through eighth grade.

“I feel good. I went to that open house thing and it made me feel a little better,” Micah said. “I was really nervous at first.”

She said she is not sure yet about which extracurricular activities she will take part in, but said tennis is one thing she is considering.

The first semester of the 2019-2020 school year will end Jan. 17, 2020 in Marshalltown and the school year is set to end June 4, 2020. Three possible make-up days are built into the schedule – June 5, 8 and 9, 2020.

For more information about the district schedule for the school year, visit https://www.marshalltown.k12.ia.us/parents/2019-20-school-calendar

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Contact Adam Sodders at 641-753-6611 or asodders@timesrepublican.com