Students in Central Falls head back to the classroom after 13 months of remote learning

"It's been a difficult year but I'm really happy that our kids have the opportunity to go back."

CENTRAL FALLS, R.I. (WLNE)- Students in Central Falls headed back to the classroom for the first time in 13 months, but their first day back looked a little different than in years past.

A back-to-school celebration was held at Veterans Memorial Middle School for the return of class on Friday.

The first day back included social distancing, masks, and an orientation with parents.

The community stepped up to make the year a little easier for families and students by giving away 16,000 backpacks to students.

“If it wasn’t for your support, these young kids would not have these supplies today,” Central Falls Mayor Maria Rivera explained to the crowd of community members, elected officials, and sponsors.

Parents told ABC6 the mental toll remote learning has taken on their children has been concerning and they’re thrilled to have them get back in the classroom.

“It’s been a difficult year but I’m really happy that our kids have the opportunity to go back,” Milly Rivera told ABC6.

Students and parents took part in a first day orientation where they were given information and updates on this years COVID-19 protocols.

“I’m really proud of the work we did last year to keep kids safe. We had no cases of spread in the school,” said Superintendent Dr. Stephanie Downey Toledo. “We are maintaining those protocols and adding more.”

Downey Toledo said the district is thrilled to celebrate everyday of in-person learning after a long 13 months of remote learning.