District goes back to school – Belmonte STEAM Academy students start new school year

By Tara Vocino

SAUGUS – School began district-wide on a warm Tuesday morning. Fifth- and second-graders at Belmonte STEAM Academy put on their backpacks, grabbed hot chocolate and entered the building, some for the last trip around the sun.

Fifth-grader Thomas LeBlanc, 10, will have a new teacher, Marissa Concannon, this academic year. “I’m nervous and excited,” Thomas said. His mother, Lisa, said he’s “the big man on campus,” but she assured him that he’ll do fine.

Belmonte STEAM Academy goes through fifth grade.

Fifth-grader Hadassah Chajon, 10, was prepared with coffee and hot chocolate in hand. “I’m excited about meeting new people,” Hadassah said. “I’m nervous about going into a new grade.”

Longtime crossing guard Jack Colarusso, of Saugus, said he’s excited to see his “little friends” again. “I’m happy to be back,” Colarusso said.

Belmonte STEAM Academy Principal Dr. Maureen Lueke said she is super excited to begin the new year. “We’re going for the gold,” Lueke said. “We’re giving each other respect, determination, and other positive initiatives.” Lueke said she hopes that it will be a great year.

Second-grader Leo Manley, 7, said he is excited and nervous. His teacher will be Ms. Grocki. His mother, Michelle, said she is looking forward to a new school year.

Cousins Max and Connor Casoli, 7, said they’re excited to see their friends. Their teacher will be Joanne Mazzone.