Visalia Unified welcomes back over 30,000 students for new school year

VISALIA, Calif. (KFSN) -- More than 32,000 students and 3,000 staff members are back on campus in Tulare County.

Thursday marks the first day of school for Visalia Unified.

From elementary all the way to high school, all district campuses are open and classes are underway.

District leaders say they are feeling more prepared for the unexpected this year after dealing with the pandemic for the last two school years.

Superintendent Kirk Shrum says if students and staff follow the proper protocols, it's going to be a great year.

"This is the 3rd year of this, we know how to do this," he said. "We also know the importance of being in school and so washing your hands, if you don't feel, well don't go to school. If you test positive, follow the recommendations from your health provider. I think if everyone does those things, we're going to have a great year."

If you live by or commute past a Visalia Unified school, you can expect delays around 8 am and 3 pm as students are picked up and dropped off.