In my previous post, I reflected upon the transition that we find ourselves in at the end of a school year. Now here we are at the start of a new one.
The start of a new school year evokes memories from childhood: the crisp, unused new school supplies; a new lunchbox; new shoes. Moving on to the next grade or into a new class brings with it a sense of having “grown up” a bit, being “bigger.” We move from thinking that the world is us to recognizing that we are a part of a much larger world.
At Summers-Knoll school, at the start of the year and throughout, we focus on building community within and across classrooms. We are engaged in the endeavor of cultivating a school-wide culture of care, which includes learning how to play together, share, listen, and understand and respect diverse perspectives both within our classrooms and out in the world. We regard diversity – in all of its forms – as essential for growth, a socially and emotionally healthy community, for a truly abundant learning environment and ultimately, a rewarding life.
Learning how to function as a community of teachers and learners takes time. It’s a year-long project that begins with our professional development institute for teachers in August and goes all the way until our final days of professional development after the school year has concluded in June. It’s the bedrock of everything we do, and parents as our partners play a critical role in this project.
Here’s to another school year filled with the joy of learning and the realization of hidden potential!