Kids in Westchester's largest city are back in the classroom today.

Many students who spoke to News 12 say they hope school will be a little more normal than the past two years during the pandemic.

The New York state Education Department put out guidance last month saying many of the COVID-19 safety procedures from the last two school years are being loosened this year. Both masks and COVID-19 testing are optional in the district.

Surrounded by various school and local officials at School 30 on Nevada Place, Yonkers School Superintendent Dr. Edwin Quezada said this school year also brings a new technology program, new safety measures and a new partnership with a group that will provide a threat assessment. "The safety of our children, the safety of our staff, is what's in the mind of all of us. The unfortunate events that continue to happen in America, must be prevented here in our city," said Quezada.

More Hudson Valley school districts are going back to class this week, too.

The East Ramapo Central School District is welcoming its students back today.

On Wednesday, kids in Mount Vernon and New Rochelle will be heading back to class.

Officials are also reminding drivers that nearly 450 buses are back on the road in Yonkers and that you should never pass a stopped school bus -especially with its flashing lights on.