Cheerleaders welcome students walking into their first day at Robinson Secondary School. Photo by Tim Peterson.
Viewpoints
What are you most looking forward to about today, this school year?
New and returning students at Robinson Secondary School were welcomed on the first day with a corridor of cheerleaders, blaring music and an inflated ram tunnel leading to the front doors. And the smiling face of their principal, Matthew Eline, who joined the cheerleaders and held a sign saying “May I help you?”
It was meant to leave a special impression on students. “How many first days do you get in life?” said Eline. The sporting event-esque scene was meant as a kick off for developing what Eline called a “kinder, gentler” Robinson.
“We’re absolutely about academics,” Eline said, but added that he’s looking for ways for the students to build “more community character” and connection to the school. A pep rally scheduled for the second day of school and special reward tie-dyed T-shirts as part of a campaign called “Dude, Be Kind” are among the ideas and activities planned to accomplish his goals.
