This and the photos below were taken by Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media

Here is The Hour article by Kalleen Rose Ozanic, Staff Writer.

The first day of school at Roton Middle School in Norwalk was "exciting," students, parents, and teachers kicked off the new academic year with energy and enthusiasm.

Highland Avenue, which houses Brien McMahon High School, Brookside Elementary, and Roton Middle School, was bustling with first-day-of-school traffic as families dropped off their children.

Hundreds of eager students gathered outside Roton, their laughter and chatter mixing with the sounds of Dua Lipa's "Don’t Start Now" and American Authors' "Best Day of My Life." The scene was a joyful reunion of friends, setting a positive tone for the year ahead.

Norwalk Mayor Harry Rilling, school administrators, and Superintendent Alexandra Estrella welcomed students and parents, emphasizing the district's commitment to safety and education. Principal Ed Singleton echoed this sentiment, highlighting the school's dedication to creating a warm, welcoming environment where every student can thrive.

Superintendent Estrella also expressed excitement about the district's "Portrait of a Graduate" initiative, which focuses on developing students' critical thinking and problem-solving skills—traits that will prepare them for real-world challenges.