The end of summer arrived for many on Thursday, Sept. 1, with the beginning of a new academic year in West Hartford's public schools.

Approximately 10,000 students, in all 16 schools, arrived for the first day of classes. Power had been restored to all schools by Tuesday evening, so the opening day was not affected.

Although the high school and middle school students head straight for their homerooms on the first day, most elementary schools have traditional opening ceremonies.

At Bugbee Elementary School, the energy could be felt all around as students met their new teachers outside of the main entrance of the school.

After a brief greeting from Principal Noam Sturm, the students were encouraged to participate in singing of the official school song under the direction of vocal music teacher Heather Schweiger.

Bugbee's program concluded with a flag raising ceremony performed by members of Girls Scout Troops 10378, 10479, 10483 and Cub Scout Den 145, and the reciting of the the Pledge of Allegiance.

Afterwards, students were led by their teachers to get the school day started. Parents were offered an opportunity to meet Principal Sturm in the front lobby, along with refreshments.

At Webster Hill Elementary School, Principal Jeff Wallowitz addressed the children and their families in front of the school, leading off the traditional flag-raising ceremony.

"The first day is one of the most exciting of the year. I can see the excitement on the kids' and parents' faces. Even though it's not Jan. 1, it's a new year," Wallowitz said.

Colleen Slaiby, Webster Hill's new vocal music teacher, led the crowd in the singing of "My Country 'Tis of Thee," accompanied by the school's fifth-grade band.

The students progressed into the building with their teachers, beginning with the youngest students, while many adults remained for refreshments and a chance to reconnect with other parents.

Please feel free to add your own back-to-school photos to this gallery, or email them to the editor at ronni.newton@patch.com.