NEW BEDFORD, Mass. (WPRI) — A new day means more students are heading back to school including some in New Bedford.

The district has almost 13,000 students this year. Those in grades 9 and 12 will return to the classroom on Wednesday, with the rest having their first day on Thursday.

Superintendent Andrew O’Leary said they are excited for the new school year, but one of the biggest issues they hope to combat is chronic absenteeism, which they saw increase during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Our enrollment is very, very strong this year. Large record numbers in Pre-K, and our numbers here at New Bedford High and throughout the grades are very, very high so we have the students we have the staff and we’re ready,” O’Leary said.

See more at heraldnews.com.