Lunch with grandma and grandpa while in school.

That dream-come-true scenario unfolded for Slatington Elementary students as part of the second annual Grandparents Luncheon held Thursday in the school cafeteria.

As anticipated, the event proved to be a big hit not only with the grandparents, but the students themselves, according to Sue Bahnick, food service director.

“We hold this event in April, when the weather is finally getting nice,” Bahnick said. “The Food Service Department, in conjunction with the administration, teachers and staff invite the grandparents in to eat lunch with their grandchildren.”

This year, Bahnick said they had 206 grandparents attend.

“They can order lunch through the food service department, or pack a lunch and sit down and enjoy the time with the children,” she said.

Bahnick said three choices were offered to the grandparents: Grilled chicken salad, turkey sandwich on a kaiser roll, or the favorite entree at Northern Lehigh School District, the Bulldog Bowl.

“The students really enjoy the day, and the grandparents can come in and experience some of their school experiences,” she said. “We also do Parents Day in October that is just as popular.”

Fifth-grader Cassidy Snyder was sure glad her grandparents, Bob and Sharon Snyder of Fogelsville, could make it.

“I’m excited that they’re here,” Cassidy said. “They get to spend time with me, and I’m able to spend time with them at lunch.”

Sharon Snyder said the feeling was mutual.

“We’re here to support Cassidy,” she said. “It’s her first year in the school, so it’s an opportunity for us to see the school, spend time with her.”

Fifth-grader Chayce Lopinto was also excited to spend time with his grandmother, Deb Phillips of Northampton.

“I like when they’re here,” Chayce said. “It makes me happy instead of just being with my friends.”

Phillips reciprocated her grandson’s sentiment.

“I love being here with my grandkids,” she said. “I’m here with everything they do.”

Fifth-grader Ronald Verba was proud that his grandmother, Barbara Kisly of Slatington, could attend.

“I like spending time with family,” Ronald said.

Kisly said any time spent with her grandson is a welcome opportunity.

“This is wonderful,” Kisly said. “We need more of it.”