Superintendent Brian Ewert may have been the one wearing a suit on the school bus, but like many students, he too kicked-off the 2015-2016 school year in a new place. True to LPS tradition, “Big enough to serve you; small enough to know you,” Superintendent Ewert made it a point to spend the first day of school visiting students, parents, teachers and staff.

(Like students, Superintendent Ewert rode the bus to school)

Boarding a yellow school bus at 6:20 on Friday morning, Superintendent Ewert and driver Don Kargo began picking kids up for school. Their first passenger, an exchange student, was embarking on her first-ever American school bus experience. In good humor, Ewert said, “She must have thought I was crazy. Some guy in a suit, greeting her at the bus.” Practicing her English, she and Ewert chatted on their way to school.

(Chatting with Options students in the LHS cafeteria)

Along with the students, Ewert disembarked from the bus at Littleton High School. Like many schools in the district, LHS underwent major renovations over the summer. But with bond projects completed, Principal Dr. Amy Oaks and her staff were ready and excited to welcome students back to school.

In the Lions’ cafeteria, Ewert milled around and introduced himself to students. Minutes later, after being tokened “the boss of the bosses” by one of the students, the high schoolers engaged Ewert in conversation. Ewert left LHS saying, “I like schools like that. Seeing all the kids interact, all from different backgrounds, it has a good feeling to it.”

(Superintendent Ewert and Euclid teachers talking before school)

Throughout the morning, Ewert also visited Options Secondary Program, Euclid Middle School, Runyon Elementary School and Arapahoe High School—noting “the high energy and excitement” of teachers, staff and School Resource Officers (SROs) at the schools.

(An AHS student shows Superintendent Ewert a card trick)

The Whitman Facility—Runyon’s temporary home while extensive construction continues on the school —looked warm and welcoming decked out in Runyon’s green and yellow. Despite having a temporary home for the year, Ewert remarked that it was “school as usual.” As parents said goodbye to their elementary students and kindergartners, Ewert quietly upped the good nature of the morning, requesting a high-five from each student before they ran on the school’s playground.

(A jump and a high five at Runyon)

Throughout the morning, Ewert witnessed the excitement and good vibes that make Littleton Public Schools so special. Similarly, students, parents and staff witnessed the enthusiasm and affability of their new leader. Starting on a great note, the 2015-2016 school year is off and running!

Main Photo: Big high fives as Runyon students headed to school