WACO, Texas (KWTX) - Students at South Waco and Dean Highland elementary schools returned to the classroom on Tuesday, kicking off the new school year earlier than the rest of Waco ISD under new third-party management.

This school year marks the first year both campuses are being managed by the Third Future Charter School Network.

Waco ISD board members voted in February to begin contract negotiations with the charter network in an effort to turn around academic performance and avoid a potential state takeover.