The Dawson County school system has begun preparations for the new school year that starts Aug. 9.

Teachers and faculty are holding open houses for students and parents early next week.

"The excitement is truly building for the upcoming school year," said Superintendent Keith Porter. "As you are out in the community and see children shopping for school supplies and back-to-school clothes, you can sense the excitement of a new school year that is just around the corner."

Riverview Elementary School began its open houses July 24 with a special kindergarteners-only jumpstart program.

According to Principal Julia Mashburn, 27 of the 60 enrolled kindergartners attended the half-day session to meet teachers, get acquainted with the facility and learn about school bus safety.

"Kindergarten is a one-time occurrence, whether you are the first child in the family or the fifth, so this was a special way to orient them and let them have the building to themselves before everyone comes," Mashburn said.

Riverview, Black's Mill, Kilough and Robinson elementary schools will each hold open houses from 4 to 6 p.m. Aug. 7.

Dawson County Middle is holding an open house from 3 to 5 p.m. Aug. 7, while Riverview Middle will have its event from 4 to 6 p.m. Aug. 8.

Dawson County High's open house is also Aug. 8, but the hours are from 5 to 7 p.m.

And Hightower Academy plans to offer two open houses on Aug. 6, one from 1 to 2:30 p.m. and another from 6 to 7:30 p.m.