KETV live from Cody Elementary as Millard students return for first day

Millard Public Schools welcomed about 23,000 students back Wednesday, and parents were warned to expect busy drop-off traffic.

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Millard Public Schools welcomes students back Wednesday

About 23,000 students are expected to return on Wednesday as Cody Elementary marks the first day of school.

OMAHA, Neb. —

Millard Public Schools started the school year Wednesday morning.

KETV Newswatch 7’s Samantha Pastorino reported live from Cody Elementary as students returned for the first day.

Millard expects 23,000 students back Wednesday

Rebecca Kleeman, director of communications for Millard Public Schools, said about 23,000 students are expected to return Wednesday. She said parents should plan for busy drop-off traffic and arrive early.

“We like to say that we’re a small community and we are tight. Everyone knows each other, but we are also big,” Kleeman said.

She said the district’s 25 elementary schools were celebrating the first day in different ways.

Cody Elementary School principal marks first day with roof confetti

Cody Elementary Principal Jason Farewell said he climbs onto the roof each year to send off confetti cannons and get students excited for the first day of school.

He said being visible helps students feel connected and ready to learn.

If students are excited about learning, they’re going to be excited to come back,” Farewell said.

Millard superintendent said students can expect a full day ahead

Millard Superintendent Dr. John Schwartz said all 35 schools had something special planned Wednesday, including chances for students to meet teachers and classmates.

He said sixth and ninth graders also had transition activities planned as they moved into middle school and high school.

“There’s no place anywhere where they’re going to have more opportunities than here in Millard Public Schools,” Schwartz said.

Millard North band greets Cody Elementary School students

Craig Mathis, director of the Millard North Band, said the group woke up early to play for Cody Elementary students on the first day of school Wednesday.

He said students who stay involved in music and other activities often do better in school.

“It’s a great day to just get them pumped up, get them excited. So it’s nice to be able to play for them,” Mathis said.

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