ROCHESTER, Minn.- Ahead of the 2025-2026 school year, Harriet Bishop Elementary was rolling out the carpet for 80 returning teachers and staff on Tuesday, August 19.

Jill Ryan, assistant principal, says that students, family and staff were invited out to the school at around 7:30 a.m. this morning to welcome teachers back on a red carpet at the school's front entrance.

"How much better to welcome everybody back in a fun positive way," Ryan said.

As each teacher came in to begin getting their classrooms ready for the year, they were met with applause, cheering and homemade signs welcoming them back.

Christine Jensen, a kindergarten teacher, says it was a fun experience.

"It was so warm and welcoming to see parents and staff and principals and children welcome us and walk the red carpet

See Full Page