For more than 250,000 students across Broward County Public Schools (BCPS), today, Monday, August 21, 2023, marked the exciting first day of the new school year.

Broward County School Board members and BCPS Superintendent Dr. Peter B. Licata got an early start to the day as they visited the North Area Transportation Terminal to greet school bus operators prepping their buses before heading out on their routes. Superintendent Licata, accompanied by School Board Chair Lori Alhadeff and Vice Chair Debra Hixon, then left the terminal in back-to-school style, climbing aboard one of the District’s 60 new electric school buses on its way to pick up students heading to Monarch High School.

In all, the Superintendent and School Board members visited seven schools on the first day - welcoming students, teachers and staff to the new school year. They also enjoyed lunch with students at Pembroke Lakes Elementary School. This year, District schools are offering free breakfast and lunch to all students.

“It was a wonderful start to the new school year – I enjoyed having the opportunity to visit with students, teachers and staff and seeing their excitement on the first day,” said Superintendent Licata. “I want to thank all our dedicated District employees who worked so hard preparing to welcome students to class, our School Board members for their ongoing support, and our parents and families for all they do to prioritize their child’s education. It takes a team – and we are off to a great start.”

Following the tour of schools, School Board members, Superintendent Licata and District staff participated in a news conference, sharing highlights of the first day of school.

Watch the news conference at https://www.eduvision.tv/l?egmgLtD.