The classrooms and hallways at Castle Hills Elementary School are filled with welcome signs, bright decorations and energy. The first day of school for them is Monday, July 19.
“It seems like it’s my first year of teaching again,” said veteran teacher Dawn Haberthur. “I can’t stop smiling.”
She has filled her room with positive quotes reminding students to be kind and the Seven Habits of Highly Successful People.
Her 22 brand-new fifth-graders will help her add décor to the walls during the year.
“A lot of these students were virtual all year in fourth grade, so I am excited to get them back in the classroom,” said Haberthur. “I am most looking forward to seeing their smiling faces and high fives.”
Downstairs in the kindergarten wing, students are meeting their teachers for the first time. There were lots of smiles, nerves and questions there. Parents got information on after-school programs and how to pick up their kiddos. The students got a chance to meet new friends and learn where they would sit on Monday.
Micah is one of more than a dozen students in Shawn Black’s class. He spent some time coloring after meeting his teacher. He’s most excited about recess and reading. His mom Vada was pretty excited too.
“I am excited for them to be out of the house,” she laughed. “Seriously though, I am excited for them to get to interact with the other kids and have a good time.”
Micah is in good hands; Mr. Black has been teaching at Castle Hills for 15 years.
“It’s a great school. It’s got great staff and administration,” said Black. “The community is just so supportive of our campus and kids. I enjoy being here. I am ready to meet the kids and see the growth happen.”
Castle Hills is NEISD’s only year-round magnet program; click here to learn more about it.
