Temple ISD had a great start to the 2016-2017 school year on Tuesday.
All campuses brimmed with excitement, but the "weclome back" was extra special at Hector P. Garcia Elementary School.
Dozens of (mostly) men from around the community lined the covered entryway, cheering on students and families as they walked into the school for the new school year.
The group represented a broad spectrum of Temple, including City of Temple Mayor Danny Dunn, Ralph Wilson Youth Club Executive Director Charlie Kimmey, adult leaders in the Un-Included Club, managers from the H-E-B at Adams and 25th in Temple, local doctors, pastors, and other community members.
The effort was spearheaded by Garcia teacher Kyla Absher, who saw a video about a similar welcome at a school in Louisiana. Absher pitched the idea to the Garcia staff, who fell in love with it, in part because they wanted their students to see positive male role models, and know how much they are supported by not only their teachers, but also by the community at large.
Principal Sandra Reyes said the "welcome back" set a great tone for the start of what will be a fantastic school year.