Some parents and students in Hamilton County spent a little extra time with the back-to-school jitters Wednesday morning.
As students returned to class in East Ridge, traffic backed up, causing headaches and a little bit of frustration, especially for those traveling on John Ross Road in the southeastern part of the county.
The East Ridge Police Department also responded to a disturbance at East Ridge Elementary during parent drop-off Wednesday morning.
There was a verbal confrontation between family members bringing children to the school, and due to fears of an escalation into a physical confrontation, law enforcement was called, according to Hamilton County Schools spokesman Tim Hensley.
East Ridge police officers responded and there were no arrests, according to Hensley. However, one party was sent off of school grounds, according to East Ridge Police Chief J.R. Reed.
As far as further traffic problems, Chattanooga police officials said no incidents were reported to the department Wednesday.
School district officials anticipate traffic flow improving this week as schools and families settle into their routines.
"Many parents walk their children into elementary schools to take the first day of school photos or because it is a family tradition," said Hensley in an email. "The traffic issue is not expected to be an ongoing problem this afternoon or as we go forward in the school year."
Reed did suggest that drivers allow themselves a little more time in the morning now that school is back in session, especially for those traveling into Chattanooga or from Ringgold, Ga.
The police chief suggested allowing an extra 10 minutes in the morning and considering alternative routes that avoid school zones.
Overall, students across the county were greeted by teachers and administrators, and in some cases welcome receptions, as they showed up Wednesday.
Dozens of community members organized by the Orchard Knob Community PTA greeted Orchard Knob Middle School students with cheers and encouragement as they walked through the doors Wednesday morning.
The Howard School also hosted the "Parade of Stars" for students, and Brainerd High School held a welcome reception for new ninth-graders, hosted by Atlantic Capital Bank, Wednesday afternoon.
Superintendent Bryan Johnson visited almost a dozen schools Wednesday, with several stops planned for Thursday and Friday.
"I saw a tremendous number of children and parents excited to get back to school today across the system and teachers enthusiastic to teach," reads a prepared statement from Johnson. "I appreciate all of the effort put forth by staff, administrators, teachers, and maintenance staff to get schools ready for children and to parents for getting children to school for the first day. We look forward to a great school year."
For more information on the first day of school and hints for starting the school year successfully, check out these five tips.
Contact staff writer Meghan Mangrum at mmangrum@timesfreepress.com or 423-757-6592. Follow her on Twitter @memangrum.