Teachers, administrators reach out to community

AURORA - Many people believe the best way to be a good neighbor is to talk to them face-to-face. That's why East Middle School's assistant principal led her staff members on a long walk around the block.

"It's about reaching out to parents and inviting them to partnership with schools," said Tonya Thompson. "It's always amazing as to how surprised they are to see us."

Thompson, the principal, and all the teachers knocked on doors, left cards, and talked with parents to make sure they remember the first day of school is August 5th.

East is located in an area with a lot Hispanic students. Thompson says the face-to-face communication can really make a difference.

"Sometimes it can be an intimidating environment for some of our parents, especially if they're new to the country," said Thompson. "This gives us the opportunity to meet them in their domain, on their terms, and to build those connections."

But teachers and administrators did not just set out to talk to families of students who already attend East Middle School. They wanted to reach out to people who haven't had a relationship with the school system for years.

"Even if they don't have children that attend, there is still a connection to this school," said Thompson.

Teachers talked with Raymond Wagner, an 87-year-old man who has lived in the neighborhood since 1968. He appreciated the visit.

"I think it's a good idea," said Wagner. "There's a little relationship, a closer relationship. Otherwise, you're divorced from the school and you could care less what goes in the school."

Sixth grade teacher, Shena Mathew, says she didn't truly know the make-up of the neighborhood and the amount of retirees until she went out to meet them face-to-face.

"I think us going around is just making it more known that we're here and we are a part of the community," said Mathew.

Other schools around Aurora including North Middle School also went out to talk with the community face-to-face. Thompson says the whole effort is a win-win for Aurora.

"The better the school is, the better their neighborhood will be perceived," said Thompson.