The school superintendent in Holyoke, Massachusetts, went to humbling lengths to get students excited about the new academic year. Steve Zrike made a video, inspired by James Corden’s Carpool Karaoke.
In the six-minute production, with obvious edits that allow for costume changes and new passengers, Zrike sits behind the wheel of his car (for most of the ride) in what is a now the second annual back-to-school carpool karaoke.
At different times along the way, teachers join in, as do several students. It appears the adults don't sing as well as some of the students, who also dole out advice for younger kids.
Zrike got the school carpool karaoke idea from a colleague in Arizona, who did likewise in his district.
Zrike said one reason among several to make the video, in a district that remains under state receivership: a bit of public relations.
"A lot of times the reputations of superintendents are serious, stiff sort of bureaucrats," Zrike said.
Maybe less so now.
