Bagpipes and Drum Lead School No. 4 Tiger Scholars 
in Festive Hallway Parade
Early St. Patrick’s Day celebration honors Tigers of the Trimester
LINDEN PUBLIC SCHOOL, NJ -- The sound of bagpipes and drumbeats echoed through the hallways of School No. 4 last Friday as students received an early preview of St. Patrick’s Day during a spirited celebration honoring the school’s Tigers of the Trimester for the second trimester.
Led by bagpiper Joe Kowalski and drummer Joe Caley, 39 students paraded through the building while classmates and teachers stepped out of their classrooms and lined the hallways to applaud their achievements.
The festive recognition grew out of an idea introduced by remedial reading teacher Patty Kowalski, whose husband plays the bagpipes. What began as a way for students to experience the traditional sounds associated with St. Patrick’s Day quickly evolved into a memorable way to celebrate student success.
According to Principal Suzanne Olivero, the students honored during the parade were selected by their teachers and specialists for demonstrating strong character and academic excellence. As the kilted musicians filled the hallways with traditional Irish favorites such as “The Minstrel Boy” and “The Wearing of the Green,” the honorees walked proudly through the building, escorted by the performers.
Along the route, classmates waved and teachers applauded as the procession moved through the building. For many students, the sight and sound of the bagpiper and drummer added an element of curiosity and delight.
Olivero say moments like these serve a purpose beyond celebration.
“It’s important to recognize students for all their hard work,” Olivero said. “When other students see that recognition, it motivates them to work hard so that they can be honored the next trimester.”