Over 500 Bronx students had a special treat for the fourth year in a row as Boys Prep Charter School celebrates its Male Heroes Welcome Back event.

Students received a warm welcome from family members and community leaders as part of an effort to expose the children to positive male figures who can serve as inspiration and role models.

Principal Dr. Khalek Kirkland says “heroes start in the home.” He says that parents, members of the 44th Precinct, the community and school staff and custodians were all in attendance, encouraging students to have a successful new school year.

"I know that he has a community rallying behind [my son] that is going to support him and that will support him when I can't,” said parent Shirley Apollon.

Organizers say they hope other schools take note and adopt similar positive programs at their schools in years to come.