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It’s Labor Day, the unofficial end of summer — and the beginning of another school year. From coast to coast, about 54 million students are returning to classrooms — some familiar, some entirely new.

Every school marks the first day in its own way. Reporters from NPR and its member stations visited four schools around the country to capture some of those first-day feelings: the nerves, the excitement, the traditions and the tears.

Los Angeles, Calif.

When Nichole Sakellarion became principal of Micheltorena Street Elementary 11 years ago, she noticed her youngest students struggled with the transition to elementary school. So she started what has become a tradition: welcoming kindergarteners to school a day early.

Fifth grader Gerald Gomez-Reina welcomes a new kindergartener into a classroom at Micheltorena Street Elementary School in Los Angeles, keeping his own stuffed animal, Rocket the Raccoon, handy to comfort any nerves.

Julie Leopo for NPR

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Julie Leopo for NPR

“It’s really to make them feel a little more connected, to make their day a little smoother and to help them navigate the big emotions of starting in a new place,” Sakellarion said.

Part of that early welcome entails pairing the new kindergarteners with fifth-grade “toolbox coaches” who mentor them throughout the year. Then, on the first day, the coaches take kindergartners by the hand at the front gates and walk them to their teachers.

Noemi Ulloa remembers how all those years ago, she felt shy and overwhelmed when she began attending this school. It inspired her to take on this role. “As a toolbox coach, I think I can help kindergartners harness their emotions,” the 10-year-old said.

Fellow fifth grader Gerald Gomez-Reina explained some of the tools they’ll teach their younger buddies — like taking deep breaths or “garbage can,” which he described as “when you throw away feelings, if you get sad or mad.”

Noemi handed out name tags and pointed students to Gerald, who led them to their cubbies, rug spots and desks. He also offered up a favorite toy he’d brought from home, Rocket the Raccoon, to help some calm their nerves.