With the first full week of classes behind them, families and schools are settling into their routines. Most new students have registered, PTA meetings have been scheduled, some out-of-work teachers have returned to the classroom, and public hearings are underway to decide how C4E money from the state is to be spent.

It's still early in the school year, but already challenges have arisen: Crowded classrooms, especially in high schools, concerns about funding for the arts,  a rally for student safety, and how to maintain a clean -- and green --school environment are just a few of the things families are talking about.

This week we'd like to know: What area needs the MOST improvement at your child's school?

Take our poll and let us know. And, given that most of you are optimisticabout the school year, please share your suggestions for how to solve the problems.