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Despite a few glitches with technology and traffic issues, students in the Troy City and Pike County schools returned to online and in-person classes on Monday.

“We got off to a great start; we really did,” said Cynthia Thomas, superintendent of Troy City Schools. “The virtual students had a few little hiccups with the platform, but we figured out what those were and were able to correct them ….

“I was even able to visit a couple of schools and even the traditional students were excited to be back at school.”

Some 45 percent of the Troy City Schools students opted to enroll in a virtual learning platform for the first nine weeks. “And when you think that everybody in the state from a school perspective is using this particular platform, we can except a few hiccups,” Thomas said.

For the students who enrolled in traditional settings, socially distanced desks; lunches in the classroom; and added safety precautions were met with ease.

“It was a rather quiet opening day,” said Dr. Mark Bazzell, superintendent of the Pike County Schools. “There were no surprises.”

Some 1,250 students, or 60 percent, opted for virtual learning platforms in the Pike County Schools. The remaining 950 students opted for a traditional setting. “Parents have until Sept. 4 to make final decisions so that could cause some shifts in the numbers,” he said. “But we expect them to remain close.”

Bazzell said the district saw only “minor hitches with traffic, but that will work out quickly.”

“I really have to express my appreciation to the administration, faculty and students for a good start to school year 2020-2021,” he said. “We’re looking forward to a good year and a safe year for everyone.”