Bay Haven welcomes back students for classes

As new kindergartner David Aballay approached the front steps to Bay Haven School of Basics Plus his mother Yajaira snapped a photo of him posed next to a chalk-drawn manatee. 

It was part of a a message to students read “Welcome Manatees” on the pavement near the entrance to the school. Aballay then continued his exciting first day of school by meeting Principal Chad Erickson. 

“He’s a little nervous,” Yajaira said. 

Teachers and students across Sarasota County got out the first day jitters Monday morning. Whether it was kindergarten students arriving on campus for the first time or fifth-grade students returning for a final year, Principal Erickson described the atmosphere as “electric.”

Erickson stood on the front steps of the school and greeted families as they dropped off students. He shook hands, answered questions and caught up with students. 

“Some of the students were showing me their new shoes and other were telling me about their summer vacations” Erickson said. “That’s the most important part of my job, connecting with their families.”