NORWICH – In an effort to sooth the nerves of incoming students and their parents, Norwich Middle School opened its doors Monday.

Principal Lisa Schuchman said welcoming new students and parents in advance was a good way to ease the transition into the middle school. “It gives children a chance to meet teachers, open lockers and get an idea of what it will be like to be in the building,” she said.

The transformation of the middle school complex, as part of the district’s multi-million dollar building project, when finished, will house the sixth, seventh and eighth grades in addition to the district’s administrative offices.