By PAT NEWMAN
Staff Writer

Approximately 18,000 students have returned to classes this week as Fayette County schools opened for the new school year. "We projected around 18,500, 18,600 students for the start of school and we are a little bit below that," said Dr. Dave Brotherton, Fayette County school superintendent. He expects the enrollment to peak at around 18,200.

"We've had several calls from people who have asked about when school was starting," Brotherton said, noting that some parents thought the first day of classes was after Labor Day. "We're gaining a few students every day," he added.

Brotherton conceded that some "minor adjustments" had to be made this week, particularly in managing traffic at Booth Middle School and evening out certain bus loads. "We're getting better every day," he said.

The parking lot/ bus loop improvements were not completed as planned at Booth, causing traffic congestion. Brotherton said the lot will be paved this weekend.

"I'm not aware of bus overcrowding, but Bill Bonnett, (Director of Transportation) indicated adjustments were being made on some bus routes," Brotherton said.

The temporary quarters for Peeples Elementary School at the LaFayette Center, formerly the old Fayette County High School, were rated "outstanding" by Brotherton. "The preponderance of parents were overwhelmingly pleased with the preparations," he said. He called the classrooms "friendly for young children." Sept. 28 remains the target date for staff and students to move into the new Peeples Elementary. "I was there Wednesday morning and went through the building. They're making good progress," Brotherton said. According to the construction superintendent, Brotherton said completion should be finished on time.