Melbourne High

Last Thursday Mel Hi looked a little different as teachers brought their families to campus for “Take Your Kid to Work Day.” It was a great way for the faculty’s children to see where their parents disappear to every morning, and for us students to see our teachers in a totally different light. The day was less about formal lessons and more about making the school feel like a big community.

English teacher Mr. Timothy Dale brought his nine-year-old son, Henry, to witness a full day of Shakespeare performances. While the elder Dale led his eleventh graders through the school day, Henry got a front-row seat from behind the teacher's desk. “I thought it was very important for my child to observe where I go every day and for him to observe firsthand what I do and how I do it,” said Mr. Dale. The front office even joined in on the fun by making Henry a real school ID to wear. “Ms. Toll made an ID badge for him. He was very proud of that,” said Mr. Dale. Beyond the fun, the teacher hoped the visit helped his son feel more comfortable about his own future. “I want him to understand that high school can be a safe and nurturing environment,” said Mr. Dale.

Physics teacher Mrs. Laura Zamora had her hands even fuller, bringing four children along for a day of light and optics labs. From her oldest son, AJ, to baby Lincoln, the Zamora crew joined the Honors students in experimenting with prisms and lenses. “I just carried a baby while teaching and had to keep taking the lasers away from my four year old who should not be trusted with them!” said Mrs. Zamora. Her students seemed to enjoy the change of pace and the chance to see their teacher in "mom mode" while working through the science stations. “Lily enjoyed doing the science activities,” said Mrs. Zamora. It was a sweet reminder that even in a high-pressure honors class, there is always room for a little bit of fun. “It was great for my kids to see what they can look forward to later, and for my students to remember what it’s like to view the world with a childlike wonder,” said Mrs. Zamora.

Caption:

Future Bulldog: Henry Dale sits proudly at his father’s desk as Mr. Timothy Dale teaches his English 3 class during “Take Your Kid to Work Day” on last Thursday. After exploring the differences between high school and his own elementary school, Henry felt like a true member of the staff thanks to a special souvenir from the main office. “Ms. Toll made an ID badge for him. He was very proud of that,” said Mr. Dale. Physics teacher Mrs. Laura Zamora likewise shared the day with her family, experiencing a high-energy classroom environment with her own children. “Everyday when I leave the house to come to Mel Hi, they chase me down and ask me if they can come,” said Mrs. Zamora. The visit served as a memorable first for the Dales, who enjoyed the rare chance to spend the school day together. “He loved it! He was super excited about it,” said Mr. Dale. Photo by Mr. Dale