Garfield Staff Welcome Families Through Home Visits

Garfield Elementary School staff went out in the community on Wednesday, August 20, for their annual day of home visits, personally welcoming all students and families as they prepare for the start of the school year on August 27.
Starting around 10:00 a.m., teachers and staff traveled in teams to greet families at their doorsteps, providing key school materials and offering a warm introduction ahead of the new year. Each family received a folder that included a parent-student handbook, and Garfield swag including a ROAR bracelet, a school magnet, and a personalized calendar.

"This event is all about building connections," said Garfield Elementary Principal Steve Brownlow. "For many of our students, seeing their teacher show up at their home sends a powerful message—that school is a welcoming place where they are seen and valued."

The visits were designed to be short, two to five minutes each, but meaningful. Families were encouraged to connect with staff, ask questions, and know that support was only a call away.
 
Local businesses also showed their support by providing lunches for Garfield staff during the day. Participating restaurants included Major's Restaurant, JJ's Birrieria and Antojitos, Ay Caramba, Anita's, and Sweet Bees.

"This is one of Garfield's most special traditions," said Assistant Principal Michele Qualo. "It's a chance for our staff to meet families where they are, strengthen relationships, and start the year with trust and partnership."

The Garfield Booster Club also supported the effort by providing coffee and donuts for staff as they assembled in the morning. The annual home visits reinforced Garfield Elementary's commitment to family engagement and student success.

This story aligns with Goal 2 of our Strategic Plan: all students will develop habits and behaviors that elevate student voice, resilience, and personal ownership in a safe, caring, and supportive environment. To learn more about our strategic plan, visit ysd7.org/strategicplan.