To end Teacher Appreciation Week, the Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO) organized a luncheon for both Upper and Lower School teachers. 

For Upper School teachers, appreciation week ran April 22-26, the week before AP exam review. Teachers were gifted with appreciation gifts from the school, and provided a BBQ-themed luncheon catered from Chef John. 

The theme of the luncheon was cowboys, and teachers were asked to wear plaid to match the theme. The PTO provided a coffee bar, catered by Haute Coffee, as well as a multitude of photo opportunities. Additionally, activities such as tic-tac-toe and “What’s your cowboy name?” were available for teachers to play. 

Food included brisket, gourmet Mac n cheese, potato salad, cornbread and grilled chicken. There was a dessert bar as well, where teachers could choose from brownies, cookies, banana pudding and oreo pudding.

Lower school appreciation week was held May 6-10, and PTO Room moms and luncheon staff held a themed week with flyers sent out outlining what each day meant. Tuesday was flower day, Thursday was gift card day and Friday teachers enjoyed a Mexican-themed lunch in the top level of the Fine Arts building. The lunch came with a non-alcoholic margarita station, churros and chips with salsa and guacamole. The main course was a build-your own taco bowl, served with beans or beef and vegetables. 

Overall, teacher’s appreciation week wrapped up the last weeks of school for teachers as graduation swiftly approaches in under a week. Thanks to the PTO’s assistance, teachers were able to feel appreciated and enjoyed their last moments together before the end of the school year.

_{Lower school volunteers helped organize the taco bar, and stood at stations distributing drinks and food. They also organized and set up the tables and decorations, making sure the area was kept neat. (Photo/Kim Leary)} 

_{Food served to teachers was from the catering company “La Esquina” (The Corner). Here, fine arts teachers Ms. Fantel, Ms. Morman-Davis and Ms. Chase are seen being served. (Photo/Marisol Colarte Delgado)}

_{The margaritas came with a non-alcoholic starter and optional paprika spice on top. Lemons were also added. (Photo/Marisol Colarte Delgado)} 

^{The Haute Coffee station served drinks such as orange juice, lemonade and organic coffee. Dr. Juliana Caulkins, chemistry and research instructor, said, “The food was really great, and I enjoyed taking some time off to enjoy and feel appreciated.” (Photo/Katie Rice)}

_{Dessert at the “Gold Mine” table featured banana foster pudding. Also displayed on the table were “WANTED” posters of the administrative staff such as Ms. Cashman, Vice Principal, as well as Mr. Rodriguez, Principal. (Photos/Marisol Colarte Delgado and Katie Rice)}

_{Photo backdrops were set up for teachers and volunteers to enjoy with their fellow staff. (Photos/Stella Ting and Marisol Colarte Delgado)}

_{Food was served and the PTO volunteers were able to talk to the teachers while serving the variety of food. (Photos/Emma and Marisol Colarte Delgado)}