2008 back-to-school coverage

School menu staple in jeopardy as debate over nutrition continues

School is in session across the country, but a debate is underway regarding what your kids eat for lunch. Find out if your kid can still find hot dog and pepperoni on the menu. Watch video.

Chapman schools: Day One

The first day of classes in the Chapman school district was a welcome return to routine. 49 News Anchor Ben Bauman tells us about the adjustments for both teachers and students. Watch video.

Chapman schools start with a bang

It took a lot of hard work, but today, schools in a tornado ravaged town reopened on schedule. On June 11th, a tornado tore through the town, damaging homes, business and the schools. Today, thanks to modular classrooms, Chapman started the school year off with a bang. 49 Photojournalist Matt Lucht shows us what it took to get the students pumped on their first day of school. Watch video.

Student on the wrong bus causes panic for family

Talk about a bad first day of school. It was a scary one for a sixth grader who got on the wrong bus. Her family thought she was missing for nearly an hour and a half. Now, they say the bus shouldn't have been on the road. Find out why they're blaming the bus driver for not finding the student sooner. Watch video.

Volunteer effort cleans up tornado-damaged school

Learn what kind of damage Lee Elementary in Manhattan sustained. Watch video.

Topeka West students ease into a new level of education

Summer has officially ended for most students. And some are trying to make the transition from middle school into high school. 49 Photojournalist Matt Lucht shows us how one group is trying to ease the tension of that transition. Watch video.

Making room for everyone

Find out the surprise that met Manhattan school officials on the first day of class. Read story.

Excitement, sadness sweep over parents, kindergarteners as school starts

"I think I might cry," parent says

The first day of Kindergarten is scary for both parents and child. One Topeka elementary school recognizes that and holds the Boo-Hoo Breakfast where parents can spend a little more time with their kids to calm some nerves. 49 Photojournalist Keith Miles shows us the tears and hugs as the parents say goodbye. Watch video.

Review safety tips with kids before they head to school

With the start of school just around the corner, it is time for everyone to refresh themselves on safety. The Topeka Police Department would like to provide a few tips to make sure everyone remains safe during the start of the school year. Read story.

Speeding in school zones costs you big bucks

It's the one week you might see more police and state troopers. School is starting and so are speed zones in those areas. Watch video.

Calming those first day nerves

Schools across the area are doing what they can to help kids get over the first day jitters. Watch video.

Little steps can save parents big on back-to-school shopping

49's financial expert shows you how to shop without breaking the bank

It's almost time to send the kids back to school and that means spending big bucks on clothes and supplies. 49 News Reporter Gena Terlizzi has some hints on how to avoid a financial squeeze in the process. Watch video.

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