‘We have multi-generational families’: Faculty at R.E. Jewell Elementary in Bend reflect on 50th first day

(Update: Adding video, comments from principal and student teachers)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — R.E. Jewell Elementary School in southeast Bend is celebrating a very special back-to-school time, as this year marks the school’s 50th anniversary.

Principal Jesse Rasmussen said Monday, "Teachers have been really working hard to prepare the room, to make them a welcoming environment for the kids to come into." 

Built in 1974, the school serves 450 students from kindergarten through fifth grade. 

"We have multi-generational families. They went to Jewell, and now their kids go to Jewell, or their grandkids go to Jewell," Rasmussen said. "So it's it's a great chance for us to celebrate and honor the legacy that this school has been in the community."

For Rasmussen, the new school year is a time to reflect on the school's rich history, as well as welcome the next generation of students.

"It's really when they're here and we see their smiling faces and we see all the fun work that we get to do with them. That's really what gives us life and gets excited," he said.

The next generation of teachers is also ready for their first day this week.

"I can't wait to see them and celebrate with them and just have a really fun first day," said student teacher Brie Mixell.

"It's just an exciting feeling and I'm just feeling electric about it," added Cadence Donlon.

Mixell and Donlon are college students who will be helping teachers in the classroom this year. 

"We have been unpacking a lot of stuff. Just making sure we have everything kind of shiny and new, getting our classroom layouts all, you know - working for the kids and make sure they can see everything and feel connected," Mixell said Tuesday.

Cadence Donlon will be helping first-graders this year, an age group she's excited to start with. 

"This is all our first time in first grade or, you know, our first time together as a class," Donlon said. "So we're all going to grow together, and mistakes are natural, and that they are important for our development and our growth."

"Just making those connections and those bonds and just learning about each student and their personality, I think is just my favorite thing to do."

A special celebration is planned on Thursday, Sept. 26 - you can find details at this Facebook event page.