Enthusiasm for the new year was high among teachers and staff at Monroe Elementary School Thursday, as children arrived for their first day via buses and parent drop-offs. Principal Kelly Svendson had also heard some good news earlier in the week. One of her teachers, reigning Monroe Teacher of the Year Sean Serafino, is a semifinalist for the Connecticut title.
“I heard on Tuesday,” she beamed. “I’m proud of him. I hope he wins it.”
Svendsen expressed excitement over two new instructional leaders hired for the town’s three elementary schools this year, Dr. Kara Tanner for English language arts, and Evelyn Ciabburri for math and science.
She said she looks forward to their support as well as the professional development they will provide for teachers.
But Svendsen said the best part of the first day of school is the children.
“We’re information overload the first few days and then the kids are here and it’s a breath of fresh air to see their smiling faces,” she said. “I like how the new year offers a new beginning.”
“Our Monroe Elementary School theme this year is ‘Let’s Grow Together’, so we’re trying to learn something from each other this year,” Svendsen said.
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