San Mateo High School welcomed families yesterday, September 7th, where parents and guardians gathered at SMHS to visit student classrooms and teachers. Families got a sneak peek into their student’s schedules, following their student’s schedule for the evening.
Back to school night started at 6 pm, when administrators, including Ms. Shiu, our principal, and Ms. Ellis, the class of 2027 counselor, presented essential information about our school, including insights into counseling and wellness.
Beginning at 6:40 pm, families explored school, following a miniature bell schedule and asking for help from ambassadors dressed in orange.
In each class, teachers provided 10 minute presentations about their classes while parents sat in their student’s seats.
After presentations, families had 5 minutes to find their next class, just as us students do!
Outside of the academic presentations, several classes and student groups put on special activities and performances for the families.
In the front lobby, Latinos Unidos, Athletic Boosters, Student Leadership, and the SMHS Foundation set up booths to inform parents about opportunities to get involved at school, and to sell merchandise.
Since these booths were located in the rotunda, thousands of parents and families passed through, being sure to support each organization on their way to the next class they’re visiting.
To twist things up, Ms. Casale, the food and nutrition and culinary arts teacher, had her students participate in a salsa challenge, where the owners of Casa Sanchez kindly donated many bags of chips. Other than Ms. Casale’s salsa, Latinos Unidos made and sold many traditional foods, including Vigorron, a Nicaraguan dish with yucca, chicharrones, and cabbage slaw. Latinos Unidos also sold fresh Agua Fresca, including Jamaica, made from hibiscus juice, and horchata, a sweet Mexican drink made of rice and cinnamon.
While families ate, the jazz band played beautiful music for their crowd. At any point in the evening, a beautiful jazz tune could be heard from the quad.
These students provided a great example of our music program, playing multiple instruments including the trumpet, keyboard, drums, bass, and saxophone.
The next opportunity for parents to visit classrooms and be on campus is in Spring, when Open House takes place.