On Wednesday, August 1, the Community will see nearly 400 educators walking around their neighborhoods to welcome the 2018-2019 school year.
This is the second year Salt River Schools teachers and staff have embarked on journeys across the Community, said Superintendent Dr. Louis Laffitte, Jr.
Last year, 258 education employees visited 245 homes and engaged directly with 103 Community members, in addition to visiting with staff at and around the Two Waters complex.
The goal is the same this year: To highlight the great people working at Salt River Schools and show them around the Community they serve, as well as invite Community members to learn more about Salt River Schools, even if they don’t have children or their children attend school elsewhere.
“A lot of folks aren’t aware of the various programs we offer beyond K-12 education,” Laffitte said. “There really is something we can provide to every Community member at every stage of their life.”
Laffitte highlighted several free programs for which there are no school enrollment requirements:
Some restrictions may apply depending on the program, such as age limits. Laffitte urged Community members and those living within the Community to call Salt River Schools for more information about these and other programs available to them.
Melchor Solis, a behavior intervention specialist at Salt River Elementary School and a Community member, participated in the walk last year. Solis met several Community residents and provided information about the schools, including upcoming events and what a behavior intervention specialist does.
“[Community members] were surprised and happy. I don’t think they ever had education staff so invested in children, families and the Community come to greet them and welcome them to our schools before,” Solis said about last year’s walk. “This year, I hope everyone feels and maintains the sense of unity. I want everyone to see how we connect to each other. I hope this year’s walk strengthens our relationships and empowers us to be our best.”
The Salt River Schools Community Walk is scheduled Wednesday, August 1, from 10-11 a.m.