MILWAUKEE -- Milwaukee Public Schools held a special rally to welcome back their year-round teachers on Wednesday morning.
Educators at MPS's 11 year-round schools were serenaded by the Bay View High School drumline as they arrived for an official welcome back ceremony at South Division High School.
The Rufus King High School cheerleaders also performed.
"It gets us going, and thinking, 'this is going to be a great school year,'" said 7th grade teacher Demetrace Jude. "It sends positive vibes across the district."
Speaking to teachers in the South Division High School gymnasium, School Board President Mark Sain said teaching on a year-round schedule brings some unique challenges.
"I know it's not easy to get back into the classroom and motivate students when the sun is still shining past 8 o'clock each evening," Sain said.
Jude said the schedule also brings some added benefits.
"It gets our kids back into the classroom earlier," she said. "It gets them off the street."
Students at MPS year-round schools are expected back on Monday.
