Page 10 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, SEpTEmbEr 1, 2023 Enrollment is up at Belmonte STEAM Academy By Tara Vocino E nrollment is up with approximately 813 students in grades 2 to 5 starting school at the Belmonte STEAM Academy on Tuesday. “We have exciting challenges, such as 13 new staff,” incoming Principal Maureen Lueke said. In her 22nd year, Lueke served as guidance counselor and vice principal as well as the Oaklandvale principal. She recently earned her doctorate in educational leadership at Rivier University. As far as the migrant population who may be living in motels, Lueke said they support all students, giving them a sense of belonging and that they can work hard and be successful. Acting Superintendent Michael Hashem said they like to ease in before Labor Day weekend so students can enjoy the holiday. Shown from left to right: Second-grader Sophia Adejobi, 7, Principal Maureen Lueke, second-grader Caleb Adejobi, 7, second-grader Anaika Thelamy, 7, fifth-grader Franklin Adejobi, 10, their mother, Fisayo Adejobi, and Anaika’s father, James Themaly. (Advocate photos by Tara Vocino) Veterans Early Learning Center kindergartener Kai, 5, with his parents, Jose Torres and Hang Torres. Crossing guard Valerie Green is ready to welcome students back to the Belmonte STEAM Academy on Tuesday. Mario Pasquarello waited for his grandchildren, fifth-grader Aundrea and fourth-grader Ariana. Principal Maureen Lueke is in her 22nd year serving the district. Fourth-grader Karoline, 9, and kindergartener Layla Garrett, 5, said they had fun. Kindergartener Jamison Follis, 5, said he’s happy to be back. A welcome sign hung in the lobby of the Belmonte STEAM Academy. The school buses arrive for the first day of school. Fourth-grader Jared Panarese, 9, with his mom, Claudia, said he liked his new teachers. Fifth-graders, shown from left to right: Julianna Cascio, Brayleigh Caruso, Giuliana Frost, and Gracie Niles said they’re excited to be top dogs as fifth-graders. Acting Superintendent Michael Hashem and Town Manager Scott Crabtree wished everyone a happy Labor Day weekend.
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