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Congratulations to Superintendent Pekel! I saw a TV report of the first day of school at Longfellow, and there was Superintendent Pekel greeting students and parents.
As I previously wrote, I worked for six superintendents and I recall only one being present at our school on the first day. To me, Superintendent Pekel showed a high level of commitment to Rochester schools and community by his presence, which speaks louder than words.
If you would forgive the stories of a retired teacher, I once called the superintendent’s office and asked if we really had no school on Dec. 16 in honor of the superintendent’s birthday. As luck would have it, Helen, a stern Scandinavian lady, answered the call. I remember she suggested I get back to work, and no holiday on Dec. 16, which is the condensed version of the answer!
Al Johnsrud, Rochester
