A Farewell Conversation with Michele G.

Michele G, our beloved Instructional Assistant and one Village’s founding parents is retiring. We take this opportunity to say goodby and to reflect with Michele on her time and experience at Village.
 

What brought you to Village? What made you stay?
A letter was sent out to see if there was interest in the community for a Parent Participation School. I went to the meeting, loved the teachers and what it was about. My family was so excited, I was hooked. My son started in 1st grade the first year. I always told all the new families from my neighborhood about Village.

What do you think you’ll miss most about the Village community?
I’ll miss walking in the courtyard and hearing a little voice saying “Hi, Ms. Michele,” or when you approach a 5th grader that finally acknowledges you, or when an English learner says, “I love you.”

What are you looking forward to most about retirement?
I’m looking forward to spending time exploring with my husband.

What is your favorite memory at Village throughout the years?
Too many crazy stories that I can’t share about the parents. So many special moments with the kids, that I will always remember.

Any parting words of wisdom and/or wishes for the community?
To the young ones, “Listen, follow the fine examples given to you and enjoy this happy and safe place.” To the parents, “Don’t burn yourself out the first year. There is plenty of time on your Village journey.”

What are your favorite events?
I like all the events. What’s really cool about this place is everyone works to make the events run smoothly. Each year it gets better and better. It’s come a long way from where we started and it is a successful school model that others try to implement.