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Schools

Parents, Students Turn Out For 'Sneak Peek' At Hugo Schmidt Elementary

Vice Principal Kenneth Gay said the back-to-school gathering at Hugo Schmidt Elementary School benefits students, parents and teachers.

A torrential early evening downpour didn’t stop hundreds of students from turning up at Hugo Schmidt Elementary School in Brandon for a “Sneak Peek" at their classrooms and a chance to meet their new teachers.

With the first day of school less than a week away, teachers greeted their new charges with a smile and words of encouragement as they outlined expectations for the new school year.

“For students today is a chance to meet their new teachers before school starts and it’s also a chance for parents to get to know the teacher and the school. The parents can also get a chance to feel the sense of community here at the school with the PTA here,” said Vice Principal Kenneth Gay.

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The event was also important for teachers, Gay said.

“They get a chance to meet parents and their new students today; that initial contact is important for the teachers too.”

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The school’s vice principal also encouraged parents to use the school’s website.

“There’s lots of valuable information up there including bus routes, class supply lists and upcoming events,” Gay said.

Jeanne Baldi’s daughter, Lena, is entering fifth grade at Hugo Schmidt and braved the rains to turn out for the Sneak Peek.

“I want her to meet her new teacher and see who else is in her class,” said Baldi.

The Brandon also happily endorsed a new school policy that allowed her daughter to attend a class with only girls.

“I think it’s a great idea. I think the children will be able to speak their minds a little more without worrying about being teased as much. The girls will also be able to learn and talk about subjects they might not be able to in a mixed-gender class.”

Along with all the required subjects, Lena Baldi’s class will study female authors and important women in history this term. “That’s not something they would focus on as much in a mixed class,” said her mom.

“This is a good opportunity to have my two boys meet their new teacher,” said Beth Sangiorgio as she left her son’s new classroom. “We also picked up his supply list and now have a face to put with their new teacher’s names.”

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