Flandreau schools opened the doors Thursday to parents and guests for a holiday meal and a chance to see what students are learning.
As part of American Education Week, Rep. Leslie Heinemann, R-District 8, shadowed math teacher Megan Severtson and her classes of fifth and sixth graders, helping solve problems and encouraging students to do their homework.
“It’s a reconfirmation of what I know. They have a very difficult job to provide a quality education for everyone,” the Flandreau dentist said of teacher efforts. “It gives me a first-hand experience of what a teacher experiences on a regular day-to-day basis and the challenges they face.”
The time spent in school allowed him to see his twin fifth-grade granddaughters Rebecca and Rachel Heinemann and to eat lunch with his grandson Matthew Heinemann who is in third grade.
It was an experience the youngest Heinemann summed up in one word. “Fun,” Matthew Heinemann said. He also ate lunch with his parents, Jason and Kathy Heinemann.
The Flandreau Elementary School lunch tables drew in dozens of adults, many of whom chose the turkey dinner for lunch.
Jade Trottier had four children to eat lunch with, a kindergartener and first, third and fourth graders. That meant eating slowly, saving something on her tray for the last child’s lunch break so they wouldn’t be left out.
“I’m pacing myself,” she said while daughter Emille Trottier, a first grader, cleaned her plate of turkey and sides, leaving a holiday cookie for last.
Trottier typically visits school for any special occasions.
“I think it’s important for them to know I support their school environment, and I support them in their school environment,” she said.
Eric and Emily Pieper came to the school to eat as well, sharing lunch with son Atticus Pieper in first grade. It’s important to support students in their school, Eric Pieper said. “Just being present with your kids as much as you can.”
