On September 5, as New York City public schools opened their doors for a new academic year, educators at P.S. 247 in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn, were ready to greet students with warmth and enthusiasm at the entrance. Parents rushed to drop off their children, sharing last-minute advice and encouragement. The air buzzed with excitement, especially among the kids, many of whom were eager to reconnect with friends, both new and old.
At P.S. 247, a school that serves a vibrant community of Chinese American students, the back-to-school day holds special significance. To guide the returning students, the school set up various signs at the entrance and adorned the area with colorful banners and balloons, creating a festive atmosphere. Principal Jessica McKenna was there to warmly welcome parents, sharing her deep passion for her work after two decades at the school. She expressed her hopes for all the children to have a fulfilling and joyful semester ahead.
Among the parents was Mrs. Wu, who was accompanying her son, Lucas, on his very first day of kindergarten. While Lucas bounced excitedly beside her, Mrs. Wu displayed a hint of anxiety, sharing her concerns about making sure everything went smoothly for her son’s big day.
Another father dropped off his two children—a fifth grader and a second grader. After watching them walk through the school gates, he drove away, likely feeling reassured about their readiness for the school year while perhaps juggling other responsibilities. Similarly, a mother accompanied her fifth-grade son, who was radiating happiness. After a quick photo together at the entrance, he happily dashed off to begin his day.
However, not every child embraced the day with enthusiasm. A second-grade girl clung tightly to her mother at the entrance, looking visibly distressed and hesitant to enter the school. Recognizing her struggle, Principal McKenna quickly stepped in to offer comfort, helping the little girl muster the courage to join her classmates under the guidance of a teacher.
