Students at Bear Mountain Elementary School in Arvin returned to classes Tuesday morning with a new TK wing featuring eight new classrooms, though the playground remains under construction.

Families lined up outside the elementary school to welcome the new school year, with many students eager to meet their new classmates and teachers.

"Excited, happy, and peaceful," said Aribelle Gallardo, a student at Bear Mountain Elementary.

While some children were all smiles, others admitted feeling somewhat uneasy about the first day back.

"I'm always nervous every year, especially with this one—my daughter—her first year. I get nervous every year, but after, I think the first week we're all settled down and good to go," said Christopher Aguilar.

Aguilar has a child in the district and says thi

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