Summer Ends for Barrington Kids

Summer ended in Barrington today, Aug. 27, when schools opened for the 2012-2013 year.

At Primrose Hill Elementary School, there was the typical mix of shy smiles on the faces of pupils -- and parents -- and winning smiles on the faces of enthusiastic teachers and aides.

All of the pupils were greeted by a teacher or an aide as they entered the school for the first day. One minute, the hallways were filled with pupils and parents. The next minute, classrooms were filled with pupils writing and drawing and chatting with old or new friends.

Many parents carried with them their children’s desks hand-painted to fit the theme – India -- of this year’s Alternative Learning Program (ALP) for first- through third-graders.

It’s a tradition at the school that goes back many years, said Principal Paula Montesi, one of the veteran principals in the school system. Many layers of paint have graced those desks, she said.

Three of Barrington’s schools have new principals this year: Andrew Anderson of Barrington  at the middle school, who comes from the Cumberland middle school; Tracey McGee at Hampden Meadows School, who comes from Bristol-Warren, and Tracey Whitehead at Nayatt School, who comes from East Greenwich. Jim Callahan starts his second decade at Sowams School.

At the high school, Principal Joseph Hurley enters his fourth year. He will be joined by a new assistant principal, Edward Daft of Barrington, former interim superintendent in East Providence.

Over at the administration building in Town Hall, Superintendent Michael Messore saw the first batch of students enter the schools under his leadership. Paula Dillon was take his place as curriculum and instruction director on Sept. 4.