DAYTON, Ky. — Students and teachers across the state are gearing up for the first day of school. One northern Kentucky school district allowed parents to meet one-on-one with teachers ahead of the first day of classes.

What You Need To Know

  •  Dayton Independent Schools returns Wednesday August 16

  •  Lincoln Elementary School teachers are meeting with students and families before the first day

  • Educators are optimistic and ready to tackle the new year 

Heather Stuempel has been a teacher for 14 years, having taught both kindergarten and first grade.

“It definitely keeps me young for sure,” Stuempel said.

A cheery yellow and bee theme will greet students entering her classroom this year. She’s been working to get things ready at Lincoln Elementary in Dayton.

“I get excited setting the classroom up for them, but I love when they are actually here,” she said.

Students will be in the classroom for the first day on Wednesday, Aug. 16. Stuempel and other teachers at Lincoln Elementary welcomed students and their families as part of an initiative to work with families more one-on-one. Stuempel said she gets to interact with students and learn a bit about them before class begins.

“Talk about the students strengths, areas they may need extra help in, and I get to find out little interesting tidbits,” she said.

Derick Dieters’ son is going into the first grade and he said his son is ready.

“He’s got all his school clothes laid out. He’s got some new shoes ready. He’s been reading to his sisters every night for us to stay above par and then be ready for that first day he comes in,” Dieters said.

Stuempel said she’s also ready to teach some young minds.

“I love it! I couldn’t imagine doing anything else,” she said.

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