Former Student Revisits Livorno Elementary School After 50 Years

By Chiara MattiroloAugust 22, 2025

CAMP DARBY — For Scott Rao, a Mediterranean cruise turned into an emotional journey back in time when he stopped in Livorno this week to visit the elementary school he attended more than 50 years ago.

Former Student Revisits Livorno Elementary School After 50 Years
Rao, who studied at the school with his two brothers between 1971 and 1974, said returning after half a century was “unbelievable.”
“I still have the patch from my sports team,” Rao said, reflecting on his childhood memories. “This was such an important part of my life, and this visit fills my heart with emotions.”
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Rao, who studied at the school with his two brothers between 1971 and 1974, said returning after half a century was “unbelievable.”

“I still have the patch from my sports team,” Rao said, reflecting on his childhood memories. “This was such an important part of my life, and this visit fills my heart with emotions.”

Former Student Revisits Livorno Elementary School After 50 Years
1 / 2 Show Caption + Hide Caption – Rao was welcomed by Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) school principal Edwin Caballero, who said he was pleased to see how much the visit meant to a former student. (Photo Credit: Chiara Mattirolo) VIEW ORIGINAL
Former Student Revisits Livorno Elementary School After 50 Years
2 / 2 Show Caption + Hide Caption – For Scott Rao, a Mediterranean cruise turned into an emotional journey back in time when he stopped in Livorno this week to visit the elementary school he attended more than 50 years ago. (Photo Credit: Chiara Mattirolo) VIEW ORIGINAL

Rao was welcomed by Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) school principal Edwin Caballero, who said he was pleased to see how much the visit meant to a former student.

“It was truly special to host Mr. Rao and witness the bond he still has with our school community,” Caballero said.

Former Student Revisits Livorno Elementary School After 50 Years
Rao was welcomed by Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) school principal Edwin Caballero, who said he was pleased to see how much the visit meant to a former student. (Photo Credit: Chiara Mattirolo) VIEW ORIGINAL

Rao said the warm reception from Caballero and the school community made the experience even more meaningful.