The Kamloops-Thompson School District has hired a full time social and emotional learning teacher to work with students from Parkcrest Elementary.
Glen Bowden says his position will last the entire school year and says it’s a switch from his usual role as a classroom teacher.
“I think it’s invaluable to have this position and the extra support for kids. Because the impact of an event like a fire, is individual. Every child is different, every child is impacted at a different time. Some will be impacted right away, some will be impacted later on,” Bowden says.
“It’s been one of my biggest worries, is the kids weren’t here. So now they’re back together with their teachers and that’s going to be so helpful for them. Of course there’s a great deal of excitement about what the year is going to bring for us. For many teachers and for some of us it’s like a brand new start.
“We’ll be dealing with the senses of what we’ve lost for a long time, but for now I think it’s a lot of happiness and excitement for most people.”
Meanwhile, parents of Parkcrest are feeling relief to have their kids back at school today.
Jade Sallows has a daughter in grade 2 who she says is excited to be back with her friends and teachers now at George Hilliard.
“That’s the biggest thing, no one’s being busses away, they don’t have to split up schools. The bonds they’ve created over the last few years… they get to stay together, and then keep going, and the teachers get to stay. I’m just elated. I’m so excited I’m gunna cry.”
Lynn Douglas has two children in the school.
“They’re nervous but they’re very excited to be here. Especially my little one, she was in her first day of kindergarten when the school burned down. So now to be here she’s so excited.”
Zeppelin is now entering the third grade at Parkcrest, and before entering his school for the first time he said he was excited.
“I’m feeling really good, I’m wondering what it will look like inside… I’m okay because all my friends are here.”
Students went through an orientation today to get used to their new classrooms, and will have a half day of school tomorrow before their first full day on Wednesday.
