LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- The youngest learners in Jefferson County Public Schools returned to classes Thursday.

Nearly 2,000 3-, 4-, and 5-year-olds had their first day of school for JCPS' Early Childhood program. The program is for children in the community who qualify based on income or special needs.

The main focus is kindergarten readiness and student success.

Teachers have been busy all month getting to know the staff and families, building a partnership between the school and home.

"The most exciting thing about the first day is just seeing the smiles on the children's faces — a lot of parents are weepy — and watching the staff reassure them that 'We've got them, they're going to have a great day.'" said Anne Staley, director of early childhood for JCPS. "Then when it's time for

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