KENMORE, N.Y. (WKBW) — A lot has changed at Lindbergh Elementary School since March, and students are going back to school to learn what's new.
"We like to call this our soft opening," said Lisa Mitchell, a first grade teacher. "We have some plastic dividers sort of, around our desks and I call those their offices. So they're excited about working in their little office."
Mitchell said it's really like a regular school day, but students at this hybrid orientation session are also learning about practicing and maintaining social distancing.
The new normal includes walking by a thermal camera, getting temperatures checked and wearing a mask wherever you go.
Teachers are welcoming back their students to help them transition to the hybrid learning model, which will start next week.
Since school started, these kindergartners and first graders have been learning exclusively online. But now both students and teachers are excited to see each other in person.
"To actually have them here in the building in person is fantastic. It's why I do what I do. I love my job and I love the kids," said Mitchell.
"It's been quiet for quite a while from September. I had teachers dancing in the hallway that they're so excited that kids are in the building," said Ann Maccagnano, Principal at Lindbergh Elementary School.
"We are so thrilled. The excitement in the air is really just something that we have missed," said Tracy Candino, a first grade teacher. "The little ones are coming in with smiles on their faces and we're so excited to have them here,"
Principal Maccagnano said second through fourth graders will also have the same orientation on October 28 and November Fourth, and will be back in the building on November 16.
