As part of its annual effort, the Department of Education opened 12 registration centers across the city Wednesday to serve both general education and special needs students.

New students -- and those reentering the system after an absence -- should register in their borough of residence.

Some families faced long lines but most handled the wait with good humor.

"The lines are long but the people are efficient and they're doing a very good job considering what they've got to work with," said one parent.

"It's not the worst thing in the world. I waited longer to see Star Wars," said another.

The Student Registration Centers will be open five days a week from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. through September 24th. However, they will be closed on September 6th, 9th, and 10th, for Labor Day and Rosh Hashanah.

Parents must bring their children with them to register, along with proof of residence and several other documents, all of which can be found on the Department's web site.

For more information on zoned schools or for the nearest registration center, call 311 or visit http://www.schools.nyc.gov.