Dexter, Missouri - As the school year rapidly moves along, the children at Southwest and Central Elementary Schools in Dexter hosted some very special guests last night.  It was Grandparent's Night.

Teachers frantically prepare their rooms for these very important guests so that everything is perfect.  The open house is a great opportunity for the students to "show-off" their teachers and introduce them to their families. 

If you passed by the schools, you would have noticed a large crowd attending.  Southwest Elementary opened their doors from 5:30 to 6:00 and Central Elementary held their event from 6:00 to 6:30.

"Southwest had a great turn out for Grandparents," noted Shannon Putnam.  "My students were so excited to have their grandparents there!"

Shannon continued, "Never have their desks been cleaner.  I know I had many comment on the size of our classrooms, how colorful and inviting the rooms were."

The pride of the students is felt from both sides of the coin as they are equally as proud to show off their grandparents as they are to show their family's their "desk".  The event is very short but does create a very positive experience for all that attend.

This is one of the few times that the grandparents are honored with a social visit to the schools.  From the size of the crowd, you can see that few wanted to miss that opportunity.

"It is always a thrill for both the kids and their grandparents to attend this event," commented Heather Waddle.  "We all get excited about Grandparent's Night."

Throughout October, the schools will have another special occasion as the student's parents are invited to join their child for lunch in the cafeteria.  Parents are all hoping that their date falls on the menu days of cinnamon rolls or no-bake cookies. 

For those that have, shall we say, "grown larger in stature", the challenge could be just sitting at the lunch tables provided for the students. 

The size of the tables will not match the size of the smiles and happiness that is felt when "mom and dad" come to school to eat.  Watch the announcements for your students and make that day special.

Special Thanks to Amy Pixley and Shannon Putnam for providing the ShowMe Times with great pictures of their students special evening.