PENDLETON, N.Y. (WKBW) — On Monday, parents and students gathered at Mason's Mission Playground in Pendleton to mark the end of summer.

"It's exciting but sad," said mother Julie Haslam. "It was a quick summer, so it's kind of crazy that we're already heading back to school."

Six-year-old Finley Schrecongost will enter first grade on Tuesday, expressing excitement about two things.

"Playing on the playground and getting a locker," she said.

For Finley's mother, Grace Schrecongost, the return to school is a bittersweet milestone.

"A little bit of freedom, won't lie," said Schrecongost. "We're going to miss them when they're at school, but honestly, they are ready for it. We're all ready for it."

WATCH: 'We're all ready': Students prepare for back-to-school as summer vacation ends 'W

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