Students and their families were recently welcomed back to school for pre Labor Day open houses at all of the seven schools in the Falmouth Public Schools district, which offered a sneak peek of each building and a sense of what’s to come for the 2022-2023 school year.
Teaticket Elementary School Principal Sandy Kapsambelis greeted families in the lobby with a reassuring smile, offering her own welcome to each student, sharing a familiar exchange with those returning and a warm introduction to the new Teaticket Tigers.
Nicholas Velez, accompanied by his parents, Nick and Jessica Velez, was one of the first to arrive to meet his kindergarten teacher, Alexandra Rebelo, and tour her cheery and inviting classroom. Meeting other children is one of the things Nicholas is looking forward to in his first year at school.
“I’m excited to play outside,” he said.
In addition to welcoming families, Ms. Rebelo, who is fluent in Portuguese, was also able to serve as a translator for some of the caregivers, allaying additional fears potentially brought on by language barriers.
Emma Perry, who attended with her mother, Kim Perry, is a returning student who will begin 3rd grade.
“I can’t wait to see my friends,” she said.
Leah Mish toured the building with her father, Andrew Mish.
“I’m happy my little brother is coming to school here this year,” Leah said.
Toby was on the other side of the building, getting the first glimpse of his kindergarten classroom with their mother, Kelly Mish.
Mr. Mish appreciated the chance to attend with his family.
“Leah first started school in the middle of Covid, so this year will be very exciting. Coming here before school starts helps with any nerves,” he said.
Ms. Kapsambelis agreed.
“This helps get all the wiggles out. It makes it less intimidating, for the students and the parents, because they have a sense of what to expect. Especially if they’re coming to school for the first time,” she said.
A scavenger hunt was organized to answer questions including, “Where do I go if I don’t feel well?” and other locations, such as the gymnasium and cafeteria.
When asked what she’s most excited about in the coming year, the answer was simple for 4th grader, Makenzie Petrucci.
“I just love it here, the people and the school,” she said.
Falmouth High School Principal Dr. Alan Harris knows what it’s like to be in a new environment for a new school year. He and his wife, Katrina Harris, moved to Falmouth in July, after he was appointed by Superintendent of Schools Lori S. Duerr last May. Ms. Harris also joins the FPS community, as a 6th grade teacher at Morse Pond School.
Dr. Harris greeted families at Falmouth High School freshman and new student orientation on August 31 by sharing his own enthusiasm.
“I want you all to know that we have many allies for you. We’re so happy you’re here, and you are truly welcome,” he said. “I’m so excited to be new with you.”
He also shared his eager anticipation for the return to pre-Covid normalcy and everyday milestones.
“You’ve hd three years of ups and downs, but all the exciting things about high school are back, and this year is going to be both challenging and fun.”
He encouraged students to take advantage of the array of educational and extracurricular opportunities at FHS.
“Where I come from in California, you’d have to pay tuition to experience all that is available to you here at Falmouth High School,” he said.
Dr. Harris reiterated the philosophy of the Falmouth Public Schools and the Clipper way.
“We are a community committed to excellence, every student, every day. This is what we want for you.”
Assistant Principal of Academic Programs Thomas McManamon, who is also a FHS graduate, shared his excitement, while outlining student requirements to chart the course to graduation.
“One of my favorite things is working with Grade 9 to help you carve your path and find your way,” he said.
“This is your opportunity to do something special and start something new. Reach out to me if you need anything, and if you can’t find your class, come to my office. I’ll be happy to walk you there myself.”
Administrators and faculty met with families of new upperclassmen, and an activities and athletics fair was held in the cafeterias, featuring students, coaches, and advisors to answer questions and offer friendly invitations. Members of the National Honor Society, FHS Student Government, FHS Marching Band, and FHS Athletics volunteered their time as school ambassadors to serve as a friendly face.
Incoming freshman Hannah McAuley attended with her father, Sean McAuley. One of the programs she’s interested in is musical theater, which she pursued at Lawrence School. She appreciated having the chance to see what clubs and programs FHS has to offer.
“I enjoy acting because it’s a good way to express myself and show people what I’m capable of,” she said.
Jaidon Gray is also a 9th grader, and he is new to FPS, having transferred from Bourne. He was accompanied by his parents, Natara and Jeremy. The broadcast journalism program caught Jaidon’s eye.
“The Morning Show sounds interesting,” he said. “Having this is helpful because you can see where everything is and learn more about the school.”
15-year-old Dan Sullivan, who was with his parents, Dan and Judy Sullivan, also participated in theater at Lawrence, and is interested in continuing as a freshman at FHS. He is admittedly ready for the routine that school brings.
“I’m looking forward to having some structure to my schedule again,” he said.
As a parent of both a freshman and a junior, who is transferring from Falmouth Academy, Victoria Naughton was impressed with the extent of information.
“The event was a wonderful entry into the world of FHS. The administration and teachers covered all the bases for new students - from understanding their schedule, to where to go on their first day, to participating in athletics and clubs, to setting up for success with a homework routine, to the added support of ‘Clipper Time,’ where they can go for help if they’re struggling,” she said.
“Falmouth students are so lucky to have a stellar school system with so many opportunities at their fingertips. Thank you to everyone at FHS. I wish them their best year yet.”