A Community of Caring

This is an edited version of an email sent to the junior high teachers a while ago but the message holds true  today. We are more than just a school, we are a community that helps each other out whenever needed.

     The other day when my daughter (in lower elementary) forgot her lunch I showed up at noon, realizing too late that I'd forgotten to deliver her lunch box. (She told me at drop off that she'd left it at home.)  Needless to say, I was feeling just awful that I'd forgotten and was  racing in to feed what I'd imagined would be a starving and very emotional child.  But when I got there another parent, who was subbing in the classroom, greeted me so warmly and was quick to reassure me that everything was all right. 

    My daughter's class was out at recess and she was eating with the junior high.  I headed for the cafeteria to check on her, fully expecting a very upset girl; she was missing recess and eating with all the older kids that seemed to intimidate her.  However, I found her peacefully eating with three of the junior high girls who were so kindly including her in their lunchtime socializing. She was happily eating a McDonald's lunch that another parent had picked up for her. 

       At the next table over sat the two junior high teachers-overseeing the whole thing and just as calm and welcoming as can be.  My daughter then told me matter of factly how several other staff members had also offered to run out and pick up a lunch for her.  What could have been a very isolating and upsetting situation turned out to be a wonderful lesson about our school community; not only for my daughter but for me as well.  It's not easy to be on the receiving end of needing help, and I know this situation might seem minor in the big picture.  But that was the most powerful example and reminder fo me of how special our little community is! 

     What a gift to know your child is being looked out for and protected when you aren't there.  I just wanted you to know how grateful I am for each of you.

Submitted by: Judy Hill- Junior High Teacher at The Montessori Academy at Edison Lakes