Lincoln School hosts open house

Parents had the chance to meet their kids' teachers, get an idea of what the student's will be learning in the upcoming school year and enjoy a meal at this year's Lincoln Public School Open house.

It had been a challenge to get parents to make it to the annual open house at the beginning of the school year, due in part to the fact they're scheduled between 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. That is until they opted to add a meal.

"We tried a number of different things to bring parents in so they could meet teachers. We start doing food and that seemed to help bring families, which is what we want," said Kathy Heisler, who now works as the school's guidance counselor, served as superintendent for more than 30 years before retiring from that job in 2015.

The meal, featuring barbecued brisket prepared by Chuck Dietz, seems to have paid off, with several families enjoying the meal and meeting the school staff. The open house is also open to members of the community who are interested in the school and its role in Lincoln.

"I love the open house every year," said Sarah Tams. "It's nice to be able to come in and connect with your kids' teachers and create that conversation in the beginning, so you feel comfortable throughout the rest of the year."

Tams, who has kids in 3rd and 6th grade this year, is also enthusiastic about the addition of the new pre-school this year, which will help her out once her youngest daughter hits three. "I think it will be super exciting for kids and teachers to get kids used to coming to school and being comfortable here at a younger age, when they're more resilient."

From the staff perspective, Lincoln High's business and technology teacher Laura Allen-Bullis see the open house as a great way for teachers to connect with parents, especially the young ones who may have never had their kids in a classroom before.

For the parents of older students, it's also a chance for them to look at what their kids' future school years will look like.

"It's really good to introduce them to your classroom and what your expectations and procedures are, your schedule for the year, basically. I have had some good conversations with them," she said. "I just had a conversation withsome of my freshman parents. It was fun to lead them through what the years will entail."