GREEN BAY, Wis. (WFRV) – Going back to school brings different feelings. Some are happy, some are sad that summer is over and others don’t really care.
Franklin Middle School is trying to change that narrative and make everyone excited about the return to school. The staff greeted the new sixth graders by cheering, giving high-fives and showing the students that they have a place to learn and grow.
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“You felt the energy coming in, you know, and everyone is excited and smiling. And there are some nerves, of course — some people are nervous and don’t want to be seen. But we are going to change that here because everyone needs to be seen here. The energy is great,” said Principal Greg Lundin.
With more than 200 sixth graders back in class, allowing them to be the first ones in the building helps them learn the layout, establish a routine that will guide them throughout the year and ease intimidation from older students.
“It really helps to have them here by themselves to lessen that stress and that transition that is so important from fifth grade to sixth grade. So it’s a big step for them, and we are happy to welcome them in, proud that they are here and a part of our community,” Lundin said.
For Tana Jungwirth, a seventh-grade ELA teacher at Franklin Middle School, even though she doesn’t start teaching until Wednesday, she enjoys seeing the kids excited and helping them find their way around.
“It’s awesome because I still get to be in the hallways, helping with lockers, which is always a big thing. Cheering them on in the hallways this morning was absolutely fantastic. It’s a great way to start the day and a great way to start the year — just like a ton of energy, just like really exciting, honestly.”
The school is also showing off its recently redone gymnasium, thanks to the community supporting a referendum passed in 2022.
Having the upgraded facility allows students to take pride in the school and use the space during class times.
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“This is a place where our kids now have a sense of pride. Like, you are excited to come into this building and see this, because now you’re going, wait a minute, somebody poured into me, and now I can truly be the best I can be. And I think that matters from a mindset standpoint to get the best from our students every day,” said PE teacher David Calloway.
Seventh- and eighth-grade students at Franklin Middle School will have their first day on Wednesday.
