After a lengthy summer break, the halls of Oakville School are starting to come alive again.
With staff returning, new members joining the team, and some upgrades completed over the summer, Principal Suzanne Calder says everyone is eager to kick off the new school year, even if this summer felt a bit longer than normal.
“It felt like a long summer with that extra week, but I think everyone is ready to get back to it,” Calder says.
The anticipation is heightened for Calder as she takes on her new role as principal this year.
Some changes around the school
Students heading back to Oakville School will see several enhancements in the building, including new flooring leading down to the gym. The area that used to have carpeting has now been updated with vinyl flooring.
Calder also mentions that the school is welcoming some new staff members this fall.
Laura Acosta will be coming on board as a K-4 teacher, while Sophia Fortin will serve as an educational assistant. The school is still looking to fill one or two additional educational assistant positions.
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A fresh start
For Calder, each new school year brings excitement.
“I think it’s a fresh start for some people, and the routine is really good to get back into. The kids come back and get to see friends they haven’t seen for a long time. Staff get to see staff they haven’t seen in a while. So, it’s an exciting time for everybody,” she explains.
The meet-the-teacher event at Oakville School is set for Wednesday afternoon, providing students and families an opportunity to reconnect with staff before classes officially begin Thursday morning.
The return also signifies the end of summer fun and the start of another year filled with learning, friendships, and activities for students.
New vinyl flooring has been installed along the hallway leading to the gym at Oakville School as part of summer upgrades ahead of the new school year. Portage Online/Maryssa Mc Fadden
A new role for Calder
While Calder has extensive teaching experience, stepping into OVS’ principal position adds another layer of excitement this back-to-school season.
“We’re just getting back and getting everything in the groove of what needs to be done to get the school rolling. As the school year goes, we’ll handle what comes at us.”
With staff settling into their roles and newcomers joining the team while students prepare to fill classrooms again, Calder emphasizes that their focus is simply on reuniting everyone and starting off on a positive note for the year ahead.
Eager to begin
The last few days before students return are often filled with both preparation and anticipation among school staff.
At Oakville School, these preparations involve getting classrooms ready, completing professional development activities, and ensuring everything’s set up for day one.
After being away all summer long, Calder expresses that everyone’s excited about seeing students walk through those doors once more.
“We’re just looking forward to everybody coming back and having an exciting new year.”
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