Barbecue Heralds Summer's End

in North Redondo Beach celebrated the end of summer Monday with a barbecue and the posting of class lists.

Classes begin Tuesday.

This is the first time the school has held a back-to-school barbecue, according to Madison Elementary PTA President Alison Crompton.

Principal Joe Ledoux "decided he wanted [to do] something a bit more special this year," Crompton said.

Ledoux, who will start his second year at Madison, said he "couldn't ask for a better school."

The barbecue, he added, helps lessen anxiety for students who are nervous about starting classes. They get to see old friends and meet new ones before the official start.

Both students and parents seemed to have a good time.

"I love Madison ... it's nice because you know everybody," said parent Dawn Rusalov, whose children Katie and Kira will start fifth and third grade, respectively.