Lakewood’s Middle School reopened for classes this morning, after Lakewood District officials built, with the help of Mayor Ray Coles, new modular classrooms to accommodate the massive number of students in the school. 

As of the first period this morning, 1,196 students were present, and more students arrived later, according to school officials.

There were fewer than 132 students learning remotely – 6 students who were registered to learn remotely elected to show up in person instead. These students were accommodated by the school once their parents came by to execute the necessary paperwork.

Six teachers and two paras were absent without prior notice, and the matters are being reviewed, a school official told TLS.

Another official said that, as of tomorrow, the buses will be further divided when picking up or dropping off students with 3 color-coded areas. Bus vendors have reportedly been notified of the changes.