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Pittsburgh Public School students start new school year with change

PITTSBURGH — It was back to school Thursday for students in the Pittsburgh Public School District and many students started their year with change.

Because of budget cuts, many classrooms shifted. At Pittsburgh Langley, the once high school has turned into a kindergarten through eighth grade facility.

Superintendent Linda Lane was there to greet the students as they started their new school year.

"Every school year is a fresh start. We are excited about doing it better," Lane said.

One parent said she is upset with the change because her child is now walking a longer distance.

"I want to see school buses for our children. They close our school, and we deserve a bus for our children," the mother of a second-grader said.

Lane said she hopes to improve communication to help all parents and students get through the transition. She also said her top priorities include improving academic achievement and closing racial disparities.

"We want to be the district of first choice. We want to be a place where Pittsburgh families want to send their children," said Lane.