NORWICH – In an effort to sooth the nerves of incoming students and their parents, Norwich Middle School opened its doors Monday.
Principal Lisa Schuchman said welcoming new students and parents in advance was a good way to ease the transition into the middle school. “It gives children a chance to meet teachers, open lockers and get an idea of what it will be like to be in the building,” she said.
The transformation of the middle school complex, as part of the district’s multi-million dollar building project, when finished, will house the sixth, seventh and eighth grades in addition to the district’s administrative offices.
A building map was given to attendees to show the fifth and sixth graders where their classes will be held and how the building will be changed following construction that is significantly changing layout of the building.
Schuchman said she was hoping to draw in at least 150 people Monday, adding that many parents came during the open house last month.
“It is a big change to come into the middle school,” the principal said. “It is a big change not only for students, but for parents as well.”
A larger orientation, Schuchman said, will be scheduled in the fall once construction is complete. In anticipation of approximately 360 students who will be affected by the moving of the sixth grade into the middle school, Schuchman said getting to meet the new staff and see where the students will spend their days is an essential part of the transition process.
Michele Mirabito and her daughter Mallory, an incoming seventh grader, toured the building together, met some of the faculty and saw some of the main areas of the building. “I think it is great for the kids to get a chance to meet the teachers and see the building. It is a big leap for kids to enter the middle school,” Mirabito said.
In addition to the tours, students and parents alike were invited to take part in a scavenger hunt and win a variety of prizes such as purple school pride bracelets.