20-car Parade Boosts School Spirit for Students and Families Learning at Home

IMG_4125 from Kate Candelora on Vimeo.

On Friday, April 24th, students eagerly awaited a special visit from Altadena Arts Magnet teachers and staff, whom they haven’t seen in person for more than six weeks. In collaboration with parents, the school coordinated a massive 275-student visit to bring cheer to Altadena students and their families. Children made signs and stood on their porches to wave and smile at their teachers, after-school leaders, principal, and support staff.

Parents shared their appreciation and emotion on social media:

“The parade was just so … phenomenal. It was just amazing in every way, and so moving! I was smiling and tearing up. Made my husband cry too. It was really, really special.”

“I can’t even explain how much [ourson] needed that drive by visit. We are so grateful & miss you all so much.”

“Thank you, and please send our thanks to ALL the teachers and staff who took all this time out of their day to do this for these kids.”

“My heart is FULL. Today we got to see some of our favorite people! We miss you all!”

“IT WAS SO GREAT! After 6 wks of isolation, away from our school friends, I cannot stop crying! I miss people SO much. Thank you for THE BEST DAY EVER!”

Principal Dr. Benita Scheckel also connects with families online weekly through virtual assemblies, story time, and most recently, an online message to share a song tribute to what would have been the school’s opening night of The Little Mermaid spring musical.

Now more than ever, teachers and staff are working to maintain connections with their students to bring joy and encouragement in addition to remote learning opportunities.

Altadena Arts Magnet, 743 E. Calaveras Street Altadena, (626) 396-5650 or visit www.pusd.us/site/Default.aspx?PageID=9.