• FLOODS of '08 VIDEO
It's back to school for thousands of kids in the Cedar Rapids Community School District. Many students are still dealing with the after-effects of the floods.
Viola Gibson Elementary housed hundreds of displaced flood victims over the summer, but now a sense of normalcy returns to the school.
For Principal Uhde, the day began at 5 am, raising the flag outside.
"Today is the first day of a brand new year," Uhde said with the intentions of the focus in Viola Gibson switching from flood shelter to a school again.
The gymnasium in Viola Gibson was packed with hundreds of displaced flood victims this summer. "It was pretty sad driving up here after school got out, dropping off supplies for people and just seeing the school transform into something completely different than what we were used to seeing," said Lorie Schoenauer a parent.
"The people that let them use our school were very kind and generous," said a fourth grade student, Lucas Darbin.
“The Palo families here were impacted immensely and the nice thing is to know most of them are at least back in part of their homes and the lower parts of their homes are getting fixed and it's getting back to normal," Schoenauer added.
And today, the focus changes.
"It's a school,” said Uhde, “this is a fun place for kids to come, to learn, to share the community together. And the parents - to know that it's a safe environment for them."
Of course the first day comes along with excitement.
"It's like a video game. Each level gets harder," exclaimed Lucas.
"I'm gonna read lots of books," said Katie Darbin, a Viola Gibson second grader>
Principal Uhde is looking forward to the year too, "success for all, excellence for all, continuous improvement. That's what I'm excited for."
Students in Cedar Rapids are easing into the school year – the first day is only a half day in the district.
Viola Gibson Elementary, from Shelter to School
