RICHMOND, Va. -- St. Michael’s Episcopal School families surprised teachers on Thursday with a caravan of well wishes to show their support and gratitude, as students continue remote learning.
Several cars paraded across metro Richmond to surprise teachers in their homes for Teacher Appreciation Day. The “Caring Caravans” were decorated with homemade signs and included families playing music and blasting their horns. The St. Michael’s Dragon mascot even made a surprise visit at some stops. Teachers were treated with box lunches from Sally Bell’s Kitchen.
St. Michael’s launched remote learning for students in grades kindergarten-eight grade on March 23rd.
Because the school’s spring break took place before mandatory social distancing guidelines were put in place, students and teachers have not been together in the same building for 6 weeks.
"There are no words to express the love! It's one thing to be face to face on a computer but it's another thing to see each other in person. I am so blessed to teach such incredible children and families," said Mary Shirl Eaton, third grade teacher. "Neighbors were coming out to see what the commotion was!"
"Oh my goodness! I had around 20 cars filled with my students parade through my circle drive today," said fourth grade teacher Angie Rowe. "I was crying, horns were honking, kids were holding signs, screaming and blowing kisses. It was definitely the highlight of this difficult time. It took all the willpower I had not to go and hug all of these children."
"It was truly an afternoon of sunshine and smiles!" said Bob Gregg, St. Michael's Head of School. "St. Michael's is known for its close-knit community so we are craving to safely see one another in this time of social distancing. Today was such an extraordinary treat and a sign that we are ALL in this together. This show of love from our families will carry us through until we can all be back as a community on school grounds once again."