That means lots of homework, lots of books and maybe even some teacher's dirty looks. It put teachers, crossing guards and even a few sheriff's deputies back in business and gave parents a bit of a breather.

In the words of one school spokeswoman it was the typical "organized chaos" with 23,780 kids in Alachua County Schools Monday. While some were hoping the summer would never end, others said they were excited to head back.

It was the typical first day outside Hidden Oak Elementary after the first day of school. Third-graders Dyllon Sherouse and Miles Moye agreed, "We did math, we did reading...everything we did in 2nd grade."

But there was a little bit of disagreement when it came to the moms. "I've been looking forward to the day of school and getting the kids to the first day," says Suzette Sherouse. But Kim Moye said, "I was dreading the first day because I didn't like getting up early but we made it and we have a good teacher so it's all good."

But it was back to the old grindstone for crossing guards like Burnether Anderson. She's been doing this for four years.

"I would rather the summer extend awhile because it wasn't long enough for me," says Anderson.

It was the first day of work for the flashing yellow lights in quite some time, warning drivers to slow down in school zones. Sheriff's Deputies were stationed outside many of the schools making sure drivers paid attention.

"We're going to be out in force the next two weeks to remind people about the school zones and deal out a little bit of a warnings," says Alachua County Sheriff's Deputy Brandon Kutner. "Hopefully just warnings in the first couple of days and if we have to, with stricter enforcement."

Though moms and dads outside Hidden Oak didn't have to worry about the speed limit at all as they were stuck in traffic.

"It was hectic, the traffic was," says Anderson. "The kids and the parents were perfect, but the traffic was awful."

But county-wide there was just one problem with a bus breakdown through the first day.

"So far we are aware of one breakdown that occurred this morning," says Alachua County Public Schools Spokeswoman Jackie Johnson. "So far, judging by the number of calls coming into the district office, it hasn't been too bad a day, it's been a pretty good day."

A pretty good assessment for everyone involved. 1 down... 179 to go.

What do Dyllon and Miles most look forward to about third grade? "passing."

Johnson said one issue that popped up in the afternoon was kidnergarten students who didn't know their last names and so bus drivers had some difficulty knowing where to drop them off. So if you have a younger student, make sure your child knows their full name.

By Dan Breitwieser, WCJB TV20 News