Manatee County schools build on academic momentum ahead of new school year

MANATEE, Fla. (WWSB) - The School District of Manatee County is preparing to welcome students back to class while building on what district leaders describe as historic academic progress.Superintendent Dr. Laurie Breslin joined ABC7 News at Noon on Monday to discuss preparations for the new school year, recent academic gains and what families should know before the first day of school.Breslin said district employees have spent the summer preparing classrooms, campuses, buses, technology systems, food services and other operations for students’ return.“So much happens behind the scenes to get ready for Aug. 10,” Breslin said. “From transportation to making sure schools are ready to welcome our students, food services, not to mention what our principals, school leaders and teachers have been doing all summer long, it’s all about making sure students feel welcome, excited and inspired to learn.”She said the district’s goal is to make sure every student feels safe, supported, challenged an