Better get that last-minute back-to-school shopping done, because the new school year is approaching quickly.

The year starts Monday, when an estimated 12,332 students return to class at Moore County's 22 schools.

"Each year brings its own unique excitement, and this year is no different," said Superintendent Susan Purser. "Our teachers have worked hard once again in our Summer Teacher Academy learning and preparing for the new school year.

"Our facilities master plan is moving forward with many projects under way and land identified for our new middle and elementary schools. Student achievement continues to increase, and we will continue to strive for even greater success for our students this year. I look forward once again to the wonderful support we receive from our communities to help us make this the most successful year ever for Moore County Schools."

Three new principals have been added to the Moore County Schools staff this year.

Dr. Candace Turk is the new principal at West Pine Middle School. She formerly served as assistant superintendent in Duplin County. Marcy Cooper is the new principal at Southern Pines Elementary where she formerly served as assistant principal.

Carthage Elementary's new principal is Rose Cooper who most recently served as a middle school principal in Harnett County. Cooper was formerly a teacher and assistant principal in Moore County before assuming the principal's position in Harnett County.

Moore County has three schools that offer students a year-round schedule -- Southern Pines Primary with grades K-2, Southern Pines Elementary with grades 3-6, and Academy Heights Elementary with grades K-5. The year-round programs opened their doors for students July 15.

Schools have been sending out information, which varies according to grade levels, such as bus schedules, free and reduced lunch application forms, instructions for reporting to school on the first day, PTA information, fees lists, and more.

Parents can also view a fees schedule, lunch prices, dress code and other information of interest to them on the "Student and Parent Resources" page of the school system's Web site at http://www.mcs.k12.nc.us.

Most of the county's private and charter schools are already back in session. The O'Neal School opened its doors Aug. 19, while classes at Episcopal Day School and Sandhills Theatre Arts Renaissance School began Aug. 20.

The Academy of Moore County, a charter school, will begin classes Monday.