Mary Farmar Elementary teachers will be driving around the community in a “Positivity Parade” to wave and show support for students on Friday, April 3 at 3 p.m.

UPDATE: 4 p.m. April 1: The parade has been canceled. The police department felt it was not a safe choice at the moment.
Teachers are sorry if this causes any inconvenience.

Galen Kusic, Editor

Mary Farmar Elementary School teachers and staff will be putting on a “Positivity Parade” for students and families in order to spread cheer throughout the Benicia community on Friday, April 3 at 3 p.m.

Teachers note that it has been difficult for everyone to spend time apart. By doing this parade, they hope to show their students how much they love them (in a safe and responsible way).

“One of the best parts of being a teacher is seeing your students’ sweet faces each day,” said Kindergarten teacher Kellie Barragan. “It has been heartbreaking not to see them. There’s something so simple yet powerful about an in person smile. We wanted to organize this parade so we can share those in person smiles as well as the feelings of joy, love, and community that are such an integral part of the Mary Farmar value system.”

So much of a teacher’s job is about building connections with students and families, and that is needed now more than ever. Doing something as simple as driving by and waving to students can brighten their entire day. Teachers miss their students, and students miss them. By putting on this parade, it will help show kids their teachers are still there for them.

“I want my students to know they are always LOVED, even if it is from a distance,” said Kindergarten teacher Brittney Mager.

Families are going through so much stress right now, simply honking and waving is aimed to cheer up students and families alike. A good dose of positivity is surely needed in these trying and abnormal times.

“I’m looking forward to seeing my kindergartners at the teacher parade,” said Kindergarten teacher Kelly Ingraham. “It will be so good to bring positivity and light to such a dark time. We all need to lean on each other and take care of other. This is the Farmar way.”

A flyer for the parade can be found here:

Positivity Parade–School Community

*Please keep in mind safety rules and regulations: If possible, do not leave your driveway. Please stay in your cars and keep a six foot distance from others.*

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