IRONDEQUOIT, N.Y. — Dake Junior High School held its first day of the new school year on Thursday. Students began arriving at school around 7:30 a.m. Some arrived by bus, while most of the students chose to walk or were dropped off by their parents.

As the students entered the school premises, they were greeted by teachers, staff and the school's principal. One teacher, Lisa Guido, shared her excitement about the upcoming school year. She had been busy preparing her classroom, and this year, she had the privilege of the largest room.

What You Need To Know

  • Students at Dake Jr High arrive for first day of school, some by bus and others by car or on foot, marking the beginning of an exciting educational journey

  • Teacher Lisa Guido's enthusiasm for the new school year is featured prominently, as she prepares her spacious classroom to create a comfortable and dynamic learning environment for her students

  • Principal Troy Bajardi, although relatively new to his role, shares his vision of welcoming, nurturing, and inspiring the 7th and 8th graders

"This year I have the largest room, so I told my kids that have been coming to see me the last few days that we are going to have dance contests because there is so much room," said Guido. "[I] also wanted to create different seating areas for kids because after I do a mini-lesson the kids are off and running, I mean they take over, and I just walk around the room and help them and they can sit anywhere they want. I have a couple bean bag chairs, I have chairs over there, I have pillows for them to lay on. So I want them to feel comfortable in their learning space. I'm just excited. Let the games begin."

While Guido is a well-known fixture at Dake Junior High School, the school's principal, Troy Bajardi, is relatively new to his role. He began his tenure in January 2023. Before taking up his position as principal, Mr. Bajardi had a career teaching in the Cayman Islands.

As the new principal, Mr. Bajardi shared his vision for Dake Junior High School. He emphasized the importance of creating a welcoming, nurturing and inspiring environment for the seventh and eighth graders under his care.

The first day of school at Dake Junior High School marked the beginning of a journey for both students and staff. As the school year unfolds, it promises to be a time of growth, learning and achievement for all involved.