There were a few hiccups here and there, but by and large the first day of classes in the new Johnson Elementary School went off about as good as could be hoped for. And for the few issues that did come up, there was one thing that seemed to solve everything.

 

“Anytime you got even a slight concern, the problem was handled. It’s hard to see much wrong, but you can see a lot of smiles from the kids,” said Principal Vicki Huffman. “I would say we had a great first day and should have a great rest of the week even though (Wednesday) there was a little bit of uncertainty. Once the kids made the trips through the new school they got comfortable.”

 

Huffman said the kids loved their new digs. In particular, there were a few areas that stood out as far as the reactions she noticed.

 

“They enjoyed the gymnasium and being able to sit with their own grades. They also loved the cafeteria and the colors and how everything flowed,” said Huffman. “The kids like their new home.”

 

Much of the first day was a feeling out process. And for more than just the students.

 

Although Johnson Avenue is generally backed up on school mornings, Bridgeport School Resource Officer Jamie Hamrick said it was backed up a little more than usual. She said she hopes that changes.

 

“I was positioned with the traffic entering the area between Bridgeport High School and the old Johnson Elementary (City Park Drive) to get cars in the correct areas and that actually went well,” said Hamrick. “I was informed that traffic was pretty well backed up on Johnson, a bit further than usual, but by 7:45 a.m. or a little after it was clear.”

 

Hamrick said part of the additional traffic is the result of enrollment numbers being up. She also said – and Huffman agreed – that the drop off lane wasn’t used as much as a lot of parents parked to walk kids to classes on day one and also to take pictures.

 

“I’m hoping that lane sees more usage tomorrow,” said Hamrick. “That should help some and once everyone is more comfortable it should help as well, but people need to realize there are more vehicles that will be introduced. Kindergarten starts Monday and Pre-K starts the Monday after that so you’ll have to figure in more vehicles to the traffic.”

 

Huffman said she received word from retired West Milford Principal Pattae Kinney from West Milford via text that traffic was all clear by 7:50. She said that Kinney was one of several individuals that played a big part in making things go off well.

 

“We had retired teachers and administrators helping out along with the City of Bridgeport, the county office and we even got to see (recently retired BHS Principal) Mark DeFazio out here,” said Huffman. “All of the help was appreciated.”

 

Hamrick said the city had a huge presence. She pointed out that the entire midnight shift from the police department was joined by Chief John Walker and Deputy Chief Randy Hartley, while the VIPS (Volunteers in Police Service) were also heavily involved.

 

As for things needing addressed in the days ahead, Huffman said the first day saw several vehicles – particularly SUVS – dropping off students near the school dumpsters in the area near the Wayne Jamison Field concession stand. She said that can’t be done for safety purposes and will be addressed.

 

Hamrick offered her own statement on the days ahead. And it’s a statement she believes is easy to follow.

 

“Please be patient and take your time,” said Hamrick. “If you’re going to be in a hurry, leave early. We want it to be a safe school year.”