Norwalk Celebrates First Day Of Classes, Welcomes Students To New South Norwalk Elementary School

NORWALK, CT — Students returned to Norwalk Public Schools bright and early Monday morning as the new school year officially began across the city.

Superintendent Alexandra Estrella said district and city officials, including Mayor Harry Rilling, enjoyed a great day welcoming students, teachers and staff back for the first day of school in Norwalk.

"I always start the day at the bus depot to thank our drivers before they hit the road to safely deliver our students to school," Estrella said to Patch.

Monday also marked the opening of the new South Norwalk Elementary School, the community’s first neighborhood school in more than 40 years, according to the district.

Located on Meadow Street Ext., the new school's parking lot was brimming with activity and excitement around 8 a.m. as cars dropping off students filled the parking lot.

"We saw so many kids smiling as they entered their warm and inviting new school building," Estrella said. "I know they're going to have a great year."

According to Estrella, the new South Norwalk school welcomed students entering kindergarten through third grade this year.

The school will grow to host fourth and fifth grade classes as well over the next couple of years, Estrella noted.

See also: Back To School: Norwalk 2025-26 School Calendar

"It was an honor to share the school opening with Mayor Harry Rilling and First Lady Lucia Rilling," Estrella said. "The mayor has been such a champion for building new schools in Norwalk, and this project wouldn't have been possible without his advocacy and support."

The district also welcomed Governor Ned Lamont and Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff to further celebrate the new school's opening at the end of the day.

"The school opened well thanks to incredible work by Newfield Construction, who got the building ready to open by the first day of school," Estrella said. "I also need to thank Construction Solutions Group for keeping the project on time, Alan Lo and his team with the city of Norwalk and Tectonic Architects for designing an incredibly beautiful building that will serve as a welcoming hub for the entire South Norwalk community to come together to learn and celebrate."

Estrella said no major traffic concerns were reported at any district schools as they welcomed students back Monday.

"We have operated smoothly with our school openings these past few years," Estrella said, "so today's opening reaffirmed that strong systems and operations established in our district are the norm."

Police Sgt. Ryan Evarts also confirmed the first day of school, particularly at the new South Norwalk Elementary School, "went very well" overall.

"We wish all Norwalk Public School students, families and staff a safe, successful and happy school year," Evarts said to Patch.