Thousands of kids headed back to school Wednesday to start the new school year.

Students made their way to St. Benedict School in Throgs Neck for the first day of school.

There were cheers and some tears, but Principal Ray Vitiello made sure to welcome each student, new and old.

"The little ones, it's a tear factory," Vitiello says. "Not only for the children but moreso for the parents, but it's to be expected."

But it's a different story for the older students. Seventh-grader Angelina Mestousis says she's excited to be back.

"It kind of feels good," Mestousis says. "Because I'm seeing all my friends again and I'm getting back into a routine."

Vitiello says the new year is an opportunity for kids to grow academically and spiritually, something he looks forward to.

"When you're a principal, you're able to see them from day one until they've graduated, so you get to see them grow mature and become the fine young men and women that we're molding for tomorrow," Vitiello says. 

School-zone speed cameras are also back after Mayor Bill de Blasio signed a bill into law to renew the program.

New York City Public Schools Chancellor Richard Carranza also kicked off his first full academic year serving city schools.