Across Killeen ISD, excited, nervous children and parents made their way up sidewalks, down hallways, into classrooms for a critically important purpose – to Meet the Teacher.
With summer break quickly coming to an end, KISD elementary teachers at 31 schools finished room preparations, arranged desks and chairs, and welcomed their newest students to class.
School starts for real on Monday.
At Iduma Elementary School, families poured into the front door of the school and entered the cafeteria to find classroom lists divided by grade level. Next, they walked to their classroom with staff members and a few Shoemaker High School dance team members assisting.
Iduma Elementary School first-grade teacher Nilda Melendez sent students through a classroom scavenger hunt as parents sat in desks to fill out paperwork, specifying transportation plans, emergency contact numbers and other information.
“It’s very exciting to get the room all set up,” said Melendez. “We love to see who we are going to get in our class. It’s exciting to meet them.”
“I love this age,” the third-year teacher said. “It’s exciting to watch them walk out as readers.”
Campus Instructional Specialist Melissa Thomas was one of the many Iduma staff members greeting and helping family members navigate the hallways.
The school’s theme this year centers on family.
“All the teachers hone in on the class family,” she said. “They all put their own personal spin on that idea to make a family feel.”
Building a welcoming environment, laying the foundations of strong relationship, and supporting families are all part of the annual visit called Meet the Teacher.
“We want everyone to feel welcome,” said Thomas. “It’s going to be a wonderful school year and we’re going to do everything we can to support learning.”
“It’s an exciting time. We see a lot of former students who love to come back and see their teachers. When Monday comes, we will be ready to dive in.”
The scene was similar at nearby Maxdale Elementary School where family members found their way to students’ classrooms and hugged and high-fived friends and familiar staff members.
Fourth grade teacher Nakita Varner is entering her 11th year teaching, all at the same school.
Many of her new students’ siblings and parents were obviously happy to see the longtime teacher.
“It’s about uniting the community,” she said. “We want to bridge the gap between teacher, student, and family. We want to make them feel comfortable and start building a relationship.”
More than a decade into teaching, Varner said the first day of school still brings a unique feeling.
“I still get nervous,” she said. “I still have that fire and get excited to see my kids and get going again.”
Middle school open house is Wednesday, Sept. 6 from 4 to 6 p.m. High school open house is Tuesday, Sept. 5 from 6 to 8 p.m.
