With the academic year kicking into full swing this week, children at Andrew B. Cushman Elementary School will soon be giggling on playgrounds and reciting their ABCs.

“I look forward to it every year,” said preschool teacher Mary-Ann Lamarre. “I love to watch the children grow.”

On Aug. 31, Cushman Elementary School had its open house, inviting students and their parents to get acquainted with the school. Cushman, once an elementary school for students in kindergarten to fifth grade, is now for students in preschool and kindergarten exclusively.

Principal Melissa McHenry mentioned that she wants the students to not only learn but also to enjoy their hours at Cushman.

“This is their first introduction to school,” said McHenry. “I want them to come in smiling and leave smiling.”

McHenry also said that she’d like to add something new to Cushman by creating a monthly “coffee with the principal” meeting, where parents will be able to have access to the school’s resources and ask any questions as well as bring up concerns.

“The teachers are great,” said Dartmouth mom Crystal Desirey. “I’m looking forward to another great school year.”

Desirey’s 4-year-old daughter, Aubrey, said she learned a lot and loved going to school.

“I love being with the little ones,” said social worker Laurie O’Neil. “We’re working together to create an exciting atmosphere that is all about kindness, caring and respect.”

O’Neil, who has worked in the Dartmouth school system and began at Cushman 21 years ago, said it’s like coming home for her.

Kindergartener Olivia Matias said she likes to learn – especially math. Her mother, Elisa Matias, said she was really happy with the preschool program, so she decided to sign Olivia up for the kindergarten program this year.

“It’s a small setting, which is nice,” said Matias. “They alleviated that nervousness of ‘my baby’s going to preschool.’”

Parent and Dartmouth resident Paul Pavao agreed.

“I think every parent is nervous as well as happy and sad,” said Pavao, whose daughter, Madeline, will be in the preschool program this year.

“It’ll be fun watching her build friendships,” said Pavao. “It’ll make for some fun dinner conversations.”