The kindergarten classes got an up-close look at a fire truck yesterday when the Palm Harbor Fire Rescue arrived at the Palm Harbor campus on a scheduled visit with the Kindergarten class. Students climbed aboard, examined the equipment, and peppered the crew with questions about hoses, ladders, and what it’s like to fight fires.
The crew did a fantastic job greeting the students and making them feel welcome but the real surprise came when one the firefighters removed his mask, helmet and protective gear!
The principal Mrs. East-Miteloudis, recognized her former 3rd grade student and Plato Palm Harbor graduate Evan Manovill, now serving with the department!
The reunion brought smiles all around. Mrs. East hadn’t expected to see a former student in full firefighting gear, and Evan seemed equally pleased to return to his old school in this new role.
For the kindergarteners, the visit offered the usual excitement of coming close to a big fire engine and trying on helmets. But it also showed them something else: one of the crew members answering their questions about fire safety once sat in these same classrooms, learning and growing just like they are now.
The morning reminded everyone that students leave these halls and go on to serve their communities in meaningful ways. Some become teachers, others firefighters, but they all start as curious kids asking questions and figuring out who they want to become.
