Hailey Chandler, right, is all smiles as she starts first grade Wednesday at Rumford Elementary School. She said she was most looking forward to recess and playing with her friends. Accompanying her are her brother Wyatt Barnard, who will be starting prekindergarten, and their mother, Courtney Chandler. Bruce Farrin/Rumford Falls Times

Teachers welcome students Wednesday morning at Rumford Elementary School on the first day of classes. There were introductions before  students left their parents, some in tears, and many taking pictures and videos to mark the moment. Bruce Farrin/Rumford Falls Times