The last days of school are always emotional for me. Not only do we have our own 5th grade Scottie promotion ceremony, but I attend the McCallum graduation ceremony each year, along with other MAC vertical team principals. Both events are always powerful as I realize that the children to almost adult graduates are now ready to leave us and begin their next steps. Wow! Life is about change, but still...
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| Coach giving out PE awards |
As I noted in my own 5th grade promotional speech on Wednesday, this year at HP holds extra special meaning. I took over the principal position at HP in 2006 and this crop of 5th graders also began their school journey the same year. So most of them I've know since Kindergarten and I simply couldn't be prouder. On the stage, waiting for the event to begin, Lizanne and I even discussed what a truly sweet, kind group of students we were sending off to middle school. I wish you nothing but the best promoting 5th graders and remember to stay in touch...'cause Once a Scottie, Always a Scottie.
Of course, this was also the week that we said goodbye to some long-standing, much loved staff members. Our speech pathologist Laurie Canare, office clerk Megan Rankin, and "original" SCORES teacher Rachael Bona have decided to take next steps in their lives or careers. They have been such an important part of our school and we will miss them more than they know.
And then of course, there were our retirements. These three lovely ladies did not want a retirement party even though we tried to sneak one past them. That underscores the humility and graciousness of all three...they preferred to quietly close their doors on the last day and celebrate with staff before moving into the next chapter of life. First grade teacher Mrs. Powers, Kinder teacher Sarah Hull, and Spanish Enrichment teacher Sylvia Muir have brought so much to so many over the years that it is impossible for me to sum it up here. I do know I will miss their humor, their dedication, their wisdom, and their enormous contributions to our children and our school. In August, please be sure to check out the spaces dedicated in their honor - the special library bench for Senora Muir, Hull's Hall in K wing, and Powers Park in - you guessed it - her beautiful classroom garden. Miss you already.
Of course, with endings come new beginnings. Look for the details on who will replace these wonderful folks before the school year begins. We have staff coming to us from many places, with a wealth of experience and knowledge in their respective school assignments. I think you will be quite impressed. So once all the paperwork is finalized, look for the word on who is coming on board for 2012-2013. I'm excited!
This blog, over the summer, will be sporadic. We have some front of school landscape work taking place and I will try to send out pictures and updates periodically. I'll also try to keep you informed of any cool happenings...Scottie Camp for the next 3 weeks as one example. However, the Every Friday blog will not reappear until mid-August. It's been a great year and this space has given me a new venue to reflect back on everything we've done over the year, think about areas that need refinement, and has highlighted how much takes place on any given day at any given school. I've quite enjoyed the process.
I'll leave you with a picture of our new Partners in Ed board, beautifully created by parent Elise Rosenberg. For me, this board represents all that is good about Highland Park. We are community. In the past, in the present, and going forward. Love and Peace to all.
I'll leave you with a picture of our new Partners in Ed board, beautifully created by parent Elise Rosenberg. For me, this board represents all that is good about Highland Park. We are community. In the past, in the present, and going forward. Love and Peace to all.
