Charlotte County students head back to school starting Monday

PORT CHARLOTTE, Fla. (WINK) — Charlotte County is one of four school districts in Southwest Florida to welcome back students.

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The first bell rings at 9:10 a.m. Middle schools get a later start.

WINK News was at Port Charlotte Middle School, just off Midway Boulevard, as students prepared to return to class. For many students and adults, summer seemed to fly by.

Later on Monday, middle schoolers will pack the halls of Port Charlotte Middle and get going on another school year. There's a sense of optimism in the air as students start a new year.

Charlotte County Superintendent Mark Vianello sent out a statement before classes start.

"The beginning of a new school year is always filled with excitement, optimism, and opportunity," Vianello said. "Whether you are a student walking into a classroom, a parent sending your child off to school, or an employee preparing to make a difference in the lives of children, this is a time to look ahead with hope and anticipation."

The first day of school for the Lee County School District is Tuesday.