When was the last time you visited a school?

Each week, one school in the Salisbury-Rowan system throws open its doors and invites the community to come see what’s happening. The “community school visits” place an emphasis on connecting schools to their communities. The visits this year began in September and will run through April.

On Wednesday, it was Erwin Middle School’s turn. Guests heard a performance by choral students while they enjoyed a light breakfast, then browsed a student showcase in the cafeteria.

The visits highlight students’ work, their explanations of learning and, in some cases, school tours.

Some schools have invited guests to observe a class, while others allow students to walk them through completed projects. Local and state elected officials are frequent guests.

Visits are held each Wednesday, typically at 8:30 a.m. The next host site will be Bostian Elementary School on Feb. 15, followed by Rowan County Early College at 9:30 a.m. Feb. 22. A list of the remaining visits is at www.rss.k12.nc.us/school-visits.

— Rebecca Rider