The Bill Withers song “Lovely Day” played over the speaker system in the Elm Drive Elementary cafeteria for the school’s Grandparents’ Day on April 28 and what a lovely time it was.

The event has been held in years past, but Principal Alicia O’Connell wanted to put her own spin on it, which included offering a photo booth for students and their grandparents to take fun pictures together, as well as students interviewing their elders to get to know them even better. 

“I remember doing an interview with my grandfather and learning so much about him,” O’Connell recalled. “It’s something that you can hold on to.”

O’Connell received many compliments from the grandparents on the event and was happy to have everyone back together again post-COVID. Plans are in the works to host it again next year.

“It makes my heart so full,” O’Connell said. “It’s nice to see all of this come back again.”

Elizabeth Difibre, effectively known as “Nonna,” most enjoyed participating in the activities with her grandson Liam, who is in first grade, and coming back to the school that her children used to attend.

“I’m glad that they put this together,” Difibre said. “It’s a good community, you get to see some of your neighbors and you meet the teachers.”

Marian and Mike Morris and their granddaughter Amelia, who is in first grade, were happy to see each other during the event and the couple appreciates that the district has events that students’ families are welcome to attend.

“It’s special being with Amelia,” Marian Morris said. “The picture booth is really awesome.”