MARYSVILLE – It was a day of firsts at Allen Creek Elementary School.

It was the first day of school for not only first-graders but also first-time teachers.

It was an emotional day as parents helped their kids get settled for the first time in their new classrooms.

There were some long, tight hugs. There were some tears, and not just from the little ones. Many of the parents lingered, having a hard time saying goodbye.

There were kisses, some even blown as the parent walked out the door. Other parents snuck away as the teacher gathered the kids in a group to tell them a story.

For teacher Christine Lilliard it was her first day of teaching – ever. She has three girls of her own, ages 8, 7 and 5, but only recently received her education degree from City University in Everett.

Lilliard said she always knew growing up that she wanted to be a teacher.

“I always bossed around my brother and made him play school,” she said Sept. 7, adding she also knew she wanted to teach elementary school.

“That’s when they still love you, and hug you, and adore you, and want to make your day.”

Betty Nelson said she did the same thing, as the oldest child. It was also her first day of school at Allen Creek. But she’s starting her 17th year in the profession, having taught previously in Hong Kong and Alaska. She has taught all grades in K-6, but said first- and second-grades are her favorite.

“They’re so sweet,” she said of kids that age.

Nelson said she lived way up in northern Alaska, where teachers are being laid off because of the drop in oil prices. She decided on Marysville because she received credit for all of her years of teaching, not just a portion of it.

The two newbies met in August. Both of their classes are decorated colorfully.

“I like the owls,” a student in Mrs. Lilliard’s class said as she smiled and settled comfortably into her seat.

Both of the new teachers said they also feel comfortable at Allen Creek.

“It’s very cheery here,” Lilliard said.

Nelson agreed, adding she’s even heard giggling.

“It’s exciting how positive this school is,” Nelson said.