Photo by Samantha Davis. Marshall students at Southview Elementary were greeted by Southwest Minnesota State University athletes, who formed a tunnel and cheered on the kids as they walked up to the doors on the first day of school Wednesday morning.

MARSHALL — Buses took to their routes and students met up with new and returning friends as the first day of school officially got underway Wednesday morning for the Marshall Public School district.

As crossing guards manned the street corners, buses filled the Marshall streets, and parents dropped off their kids to begin a new chapter, several students expressed excitement walking up to their respective schools.

Students were greeted by Southwest Minnesota State University athletes at Southview Elementary, who formed a tunnel and cheered on the kids as they ran into the front doors.

“It’s finally the first day of school,” one student enthusiastically cheered as she approached the doors.

Some parents stood nearby to watch and take pictures of their children going through the tunnel, with a “Back to School” sign placed in the front lawn as well.

“That’s always fun. That’s the best part, is getting kids back in the schools,” Marshall superintendent Jeremy Williams said Tuesday night.

A handful of students sprinted through the tunnel to gather high-fives from the SMSU athletes, as others walked through, bolstering a smile along the way.

Messages of “I love you’s” and “Have a good day,” along with a plethora of hugs from parents filled the surrounding area.

Representatives from R and G Construction were also present at the middle school to help students get along the Saratoga and West College intersection, as construction continues around the area.

The Marshall school district got ready to welcome in students for a new year last week during an all-staff event that brought in keynote speaker Hamish Brewer, popularly known as the “Tattooed Skateboarding Principal,” who travels around to give motivational speeches surrounding education and advocating for students.

“He (Brewer) talks about being a relentless educator,” Marshall Director of Teaching and Learning Beth Ritter said. “He talked to our entire staff, certified and non-certified staff. It was a great presentation [to get] people fired up for the school year.”

Southview Elementary, Park Side Elementary, the middle school and the Area Learning Center all returned to school Wednesday, while the high school started on Tuesday. Preschool and kindergarten will begin on Monday.