On September 20, 2023, Middletown South celebrated its annual tradition: Back to School Night. At this event, parents of students came to South for the night, followed their children’s schedules, met their teachers, and got a taste of what South has to offer. Each class period lasted for eight minutes, during which faculty introduced themselves to the parents and explained what their class is about and what was expected of their students. One attending family noted that this was their favorite part of the evening, saying, “It’s really interesting and fast-paced, and I like the faculty.” The Merlino family agreed, saying their favorite part was “meeting the teachers.”
Parents also had the opportunity to visit the activity fair that took place in the cafeteria. There, members represented every club at South and gave information about their activities. This encouraged parents to find clubs that might pique their child’s interest. Along with the fair in the cafeteria, the school store was also open for parents to shop for their Middletown South merchandise. The store is run by the school’s chapter of the Future Business Leaders of America. There, parents could purchase South sweatshirts, sweatpants, t-shirts, lanyards, and more.
In addition to the parents and faculty, the Peer Leader club was in attendance. Club members, also known as the “Red Army” due to their red shirts, helped parents navigate the hallways in between classes. Peer Leader Sophie Monahan said her favorite part of working at Back to School Night was the “sense of fulfillment” that she got from “helping all of the wonderful parents.” To future Peer Leaders, Monahan advises that the best thing you can do to prepare is to “be calm and take your time. You got this!”
Back to School Night celebrated the school’s sense of community, its dedicated faculty, proud parents, and involved students. It was a wonderful way to kick off the 2023-24 school year!