Central Unified prepares for 1st day of school

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- The Central Unified School District is among the first in the Valley to go back to school. While the first day is still days away, preparations have been underway all summer long.

Brian Gumm is putting the finishing touches on his classroom at River Bluff Elementary. From textbooks to tablets, the last few weeks have been filled with a flurry of activity for the fifth grade teacher. He says he's trying to create a colorful but calming space for incoming students.

"So I try to put myself in their shoes and try to provide a safe, quiet, peaceful place where they can come," said Gumm. "I know what it feels like, and I don't want them to feel jittery. But if they do, it goes away fast."

Teachers all over Central Unified are getting ready for the first day of school next Wednesday. Wall decorations are still going up, and boxes are still being unloaded.

River Bluff principal Michelle Bergmann says the first day of school is like no other. "Just the anticipation of what's to come for the new year, the rush, the excitement, see your friends, to make new friends. It's a fun day," she said.

While the school's doors may have been closed, not the district. Administration officials have been working all these months preparing for the fall semester. That means air conditioning units up and running, and campuses clean and ready to receive students.

Superintendent Mark Sutton said, "The summertime actually for us is one of the busiest times because of all the preparations that have to go in -- the materials, supplies, everything in place, the facilities ready to go."

For Sutton, the day will be extra special -- his first as the head of Central Unified. "It's great to be here, it's great to be in a new place. I can't wait to welcome a different group of students, parents and the community," said Sutton.