Schools Open, Day 1

When the first students walked into the school I watched as some of the staff began to weep with joy to see them back in school.

Today I spent time at seven different schools beginning the morning at Lecanto Primary School as the students began entering the buildings. When the first students walked into the school I watched as some of the staff began to weep with joy to see them back in school. I was so impressed to see the many plans and procedures at work.  The students were nothing less than exceptional from the moment they walked in. At the front door, a staff member checked as students came in to see if they needed a mask. If so, they would receive a disposable one. On this day only one mask needed to be given out and that was only because the mask the student brought was a little too big for them. We are so proud of all our students. These young people handled themselves so well.  I know I am partial, but our staff and teachers were just superstars and are the best in Florida and our nation!! The love and care they have for each and every student and person at their schools is overwhelming.

After leaving LPS, I had an opportunity to help deliver PPE (personal protective equipment- masks, gloves, etc.) to a number of our schools. At each school, I found a similar positive learning environment.

One of my favorite new things is seeing all the cool masks the students and staff are wearing. Some are homemade, some bought, and some decorated. I love that peoples’ personalities and likes are being expressed on these masks. I was pleased that families are taking this opportunity to make masks fun.

I also want to give a shout out to our new virtual students and families. We are just as excited about your school year. I know today looked different, but we are so excited about your choice of virtual school.

I have enjoyed all the first-day of school photos on social media, and this year was no exception. Some first-day photos had students in masks, some virtual ones were funny ones with students in pajamas. I love that each family is finding unique ways to make this first day special and not letting these challenging times get us down.

Well done everyone!

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