Clovis Unified students head back to school

CLOVIS, Calif. (KFSN) -- Summer break has come to an end for Clovis Unified. For the first time in her life, Marissa Lopez is venturing out on her own and leaving her family's side.

This is the day she starts kindergarten at Clovis Elementary, and her dad Marcos brought her early.

"The years just pass by so quick and it's a sad day, but it's gonna be a fun day for her," he said.

Not far away, inside Susan Mott's 3rd-grade classroom, it's the calm before the storm and Mrs. Mott's 23rd first day of school.

"I'm one of those people who just can't wait to get back to school," she said.

District-wide, there are thousands of students all returning to recently updated or renovated classrooms.

"I'm sure the kids when they walk in they're gonna be like, 'Whoa! What happened here?'" Mott said.

Mrs. Mott has a new projector, improved airflow and a new set of seats to make sure her kids are comfortable and ready to learn. Back outside, with a sea of eager kids, Marissa's adventure is about to begin.

But first a hug from dad, followed by a warm welcome from her new teacher.