Battling school daze
Greeters help kids start day
Staff writer
Rain or shine, familiar faces help Marion Elementary students start their day on the right foot.
Presbyterian Church pastor Jeremiah Lange, former interim police chief Zach Hudlin, and an assortment of other volunteers regularly greet students outside the school, offering high-fives, opening doors, and welcoming each child by name.
Students enjoy the consistent interaction.
The greeters notice small details like haircuts or time away from school, helping kids feel recognized as they arrive.
Consistency is one of the biggest benefits of the pair’s presence.
Their familiarity with students allows them to recognize when a child may be having a difficult morning and respond accordingly.
“We also love that they know every kid by name and show genuine excitement to see them each morning,” school secretary Lisa Collett said.
Their attention continues beyond greetings.
“They remind kids to get their backpacks, lunch boxes, water bottles, instruments, etc. that kids usually have each day,” school nurse Jana Nordquist said.
They also make a point to encourage students as they enter.
“They always have a compliment for kids as they enter the building,” Nordquist said.
Those daily interactions help set a positive tone before students reach the classroom.