JAY — Friday afternoon, Oct. 20, Spruce Mountain Elementary School Principal Pat St. Clair directed traffic as the line grew ever longer while relatives awaited the Grandparents’ Day event at the school.
The official Grandparents’ Day was Sept. 10, according to Wikipedia.
The event at the elementary school invited any relatives, not just grandparents to participate. It has been several years since the program was held.
The line of visitors extended around the corner towards the playground behind the school and continued to lengthen, both before the doors opened and even afterwards.
“We can go sliding!” one visitor proclaimed while another one wondered where the event was going to be held.
Children eagerly watched out the classroom windows, waving and smiling when seeing someone they knew.
Inside visitors slowly but eagerly made their way towards their student[s]’ classroom. Hugs and high fives were shared, then classroom tours were given followed by the playing of games.
Nelda Bond of Livermore Falls played Legos with her great nephew, Oakley Fortenbacker of Livermore Falls. She was thrilled to have their photo taken for the Livermore Falls Advertiser.
“I am going to be honored,” she exclaimed. “I am his great aunt.”
Zachary Smith and Brandilee Lacasse of Jay were seen with their children third grader Willow Smith and fifth grader Luci Smith. The girls’ grandparents also attended. The group planned to look for more answers to a scavenger hunt.
Teacher Michelle Leclerc reminisced with a former student. Leclerc now teaches math to the woman’s son.
John and Ruth Archer of Chesterville played a game with grandson Brenden Churchill of Jay.
In another room Terri Dunn and her daughters from Livermore, fifth grader Ella Dunn and fourth grader Alana Dunn enjoyed some of the many snacks provided by relatives.
Grandfather Tim Jacobs of Leeds sat at one of the cafeteria tables while his grandson fifth grader Landen Jacobs of Livermore Falls ate a cookie.
Grandparents’ Day was successful for all involved, allowing students to proudly show off their work and visitors to provide positive feedback.
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