Nehemiah Shultz woke up to a surprise Wednesday as he prepared to start his first day of kindergarten at Potter Gray Elementary School.

That’s because his father, Bowling Green Fire Department Sgt. Andy Shultz, arranged to have a firetruck drop his son off at school. Shultz said his son was “super excited” and reacted with disbelief. It only added to his son’s excitement about starting school. 

“We are way more nervous than he is,” Shultz said of his son. 

Nehemiah was one of thousands of students starting school Wednesday in the Bowling Green Independent School District and Warren County Public Schools.

Shultz’s wife, Keila, said their son celebrated by bringing his teacher flowers. 

“That was all his idea too,” Andy Shultz said. 

The first day of school is a new experience for parents too.

“It’s bittersweet,” Keila Shultz said.

“It’s just taking that step into the next season of his life,” Andy Shultz added. 

Hillary Hightower, with her son Graham starting fifth grade, has more experience.

“It’s a little sad,” Hightower said of her son’s last year in elementary school. “I think elementary school is the most nurturing.” 

Amber Hancock, whose daughter Emery is starting kindergarten, said she’s counting on her son Easton to look out for her. 

“I’m just gonna make sure she’s OK,” Easton said. “So no one pushes her down.” 

Easton, who likes learning about science, feels like a pro when it comes to starting school. 

Potter Gray Principal Byron Darnall spent part of the morning greeting students as they arrived, even posing for a selfie with one. His own daughter is also starting kindergarten. 

“You’re nervous for your child,” he said. “It’s a big transition, but it’s exciting to have her here.” 

At nearby Briarwood Elementary School, Mandy Weaver hugged her son Dane goodbye as he started second grade. Although it’s bittersweet to watch her son grow up, Weaver said her school is supportive. 

“It’s like a family here,” she said. “You can tell they care about the kids first and foremost.” 

Lori Morris, Briarwood’s principal, said her role on the first day of school comes down to ensuring safety, learning opportunities and nurturing for every child. 

“Building relationships is most important,” she said. 

Second-grade teacher Christy Potter has a similar job and said it comes down to showing students love. 

“Leaving mom and dad is hard,” she said. “When they come in here we want them to know that it’s a happy place.” 

— Follow education reporter Aaron Mudd on Twitter @BGDN_edbeat or visit bgdailynews.com.