MILWAUKEE  — Thousands of students across the state headed into their first day of school on Tuesday.

Among them were the students at Milwaukee Public Schools' South Division High School. They were greeted outside the school by district officials and politicians.

South Division is one of the many schools across the district that underwent a renovation. It has a newcomer center for immigrant and refugee students.

Freshman Angelina Aguilera is from Mexico. She said it’s great to start a new school year with these new facilities.

“I am excited,” said Aguilera. “It’s nice. I will be with people who speak Spanish, too.”

The school also launched an adult literacy program and a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Lab for those interested in health care careers.

Interim Superintendent Eduardo Galvan said these improvements will have a positive impact on the district’s diverse student body.

“We’ve made many, many investments in our buildings this year,” said Galvan. “Our students will be walking into buildings that are better prepared than they have been in many, many years, perhaps even decades.”

For senior Catelyn McLaurin, this is about making the most of her final year in high school. She is even taking up a new sport.

“This year, I’m really excited for golf,” said McLaurin. “I decided it’s my last year. Why not go out with a bang?”

Aguilera said she is excited to start a new school in a new country.

“I can’t even explain it,” she said. “I am so excited, but I am so nervous, but the biggest part is that I am excited.”