LEXINGTON, Ky. — It’s back to school for Kentucky’s second-largest school district. Students in Fayette County Public Schools returned to classroom Aug. 14 for the start of another school year.

Buses packed with FCPS students dropped them off for their first of many days of school. Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton said it's a sign the end of summer is near. Three schools already started in late July. 

“This is our city activating," Gorton said.

Gorton and Superintendent Demetrus Liggins greeted students as they departed their buses and headed into Booker T. Washington Elementary. 

“My first day of school, today included, I will travel from school to school all day and see the transition throughout the day," Liggins said. "I get to see kids starting their day getting off the buses, and then I get to do car duty and bus duty in the evening." 

The elementary school serves nearly 300 students as young as pre-K to as old as fifth grade. Darnell Patton dropped off his second-grader, with her younger brother starting pre-K.

“We’re excited," Patton said. 

Liggins said his message to kindergarteners and other newcomers is simple. 

"Stay strong; continue to go," Liggins said. "You’re going to have some nerves, some challenges, but you’re going to get through it." 

With buses back on the roads, Gorton reminded Lexington drivers to be aware and have patience during the morning and afternoon commutes.

“Pay attention to the rules of stopping when the bus stops, especially if you’re in a two-lane road," Gorton said. "You’ve got to stop, and it’s all about safety out there on the roads." 

More than 42,000 students attend FCPS.

Other districts that returned to class in central Kentucky included Scott County Schools, Madison County Schools and Jessamine County Schools.