(MILWAUKEE) —Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers, State Superintendent Dr. Jill Underly, and other guests joined Milwaukee Public Schools on Tuesday morning to celebrate the first day of school on the traditional start calendar. The festivities took place at Maryland Avenue Montessori School on Milwaukee’s east side.
Students walked the red carpet into school, through a blue and gold balloon arch, as local and state officials, the MPS superintendent, board members, and district staff cheered them into school and Riverside University High School band members played.
“Each year presents a new opportunity for educators and students alike to grow and learn, inspire and create new connections,” said Evers, who welcomed students, parents, teachers, and staff to a new school year.
Evers, who took note of the work that goes on to prepare for the first day of school by teachers, maintenance crews, families, and others, himself served as state superintendent of schools before becoming governor.
Underly, the current state superintendent of schools, said, “This is my favorite day of the school year . . . Just seeing the kids’ faces as they’re walking up the red carpet during the bell ringing, and seeing the excitement in their eyes to start another year — I’m excited to see what they’re ready to do next.”
Milwaukee Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Keith P. Posley observed that this year marks the 50th anniversary of Montessori education in Milwaukee Public Schools. The district now has eight Montessori schools that enroll a total of about 4,000 students a year.
“Maryland Avenue Montessori School is a model campus, with a representation of academic excellence and high standards. Their program inspires the curiosity of young people through creative choices and hands-on learning,” Posley said.
“As we embark on another school year, I want us to be reminded of the potential within each student, within each classroom, and within all Milwaukee Public Schools,” Posley continued. “This is happening in 156 different locations. Education is going on every day in Milwaukee Public Schools.”
Others attending the Maryland Avenue event included Milwaukee Board of School Directors members Marva Herndon, Jilly Gokalgandhi, Henry Leonard, and Missy Zombor; Milwaukee Ald. Jonathan Brostoff; Milwaukee Teachers’ Education Association President Amy Mizialko; and Administrators and Supervisors Council Executive Director Steven Lubar.
School classrooms and Maryland Avenue’s rain garden, raised produce beds, and orchard were open for tours to guests and media. At Maryland Avenue Montessori, classrooms are multi-aged; children are grouped K3-K5, grades 1-3, 4-6, and 7-8.
Maryland Avenue Montessori School is located at 2418 N. Maryland Avenue.
