Farewell from our Parent Educators
Our Parent Ed team members are some of the first we meet as new Village parents. They introduce us to Village, to the discipline philosophy that will be so critical to our interactions over the next 6 years, to the energy and excitement of the parent community we will soon get to know, and to the core principles of the school that will very soon become our family. This month, we say goodbye to two of our veteran parent educators, Steve S. and Amy D. Their countless hours educating, advising, and sometimes simply listening us lament the trials, tribulations, and rewards of parenting have been so very appreciated. And your presence will be so very missed.
Steve S., Parent of Snowboarding Snow Leopard Jordan
When reflecting on our time at Village, the feeling that stands out more than any other is—GRATITUDE. I am feeling truly grateful that my daughter had the opportunity to experience Village over the last 6 years. The nurturing and support she has received by all of the incredible people has helped her develop in so many ways. It has become her second home, complete with loving caregivers and a host of brothers and sisters. And although she is a bit nervous about leaving, I believe she has a solid foundation that will allow her to thrive in the future. But as much as she has gained, I think we as parents have benefitted just as much—if not more! The wealth of resources and support from this community has been invaluable. And most importantly, the friendships and connections we developed with the other parents and staff have enriched our lives immeasurably. So thank you to all of the Village family; past, present, and future!
Amy D., Parent of Fearless Falcon Shane
After seven years I am getting ready to transition away from Village School. Away from the amazing teachers who have welcomed me into their classrooms and showed me what kindness and respect really looks like when working with children. Away from an incredibly encouraging and enthusiastic community of parents. Away from a staff that runs the ins and outs of a school with open arms and a “how can I help?” attitude. Away from the children who are my greatest teachers about the really important life skills. Many people have asked how this transition is for me. I have found myself giving them all the same answer — “I am ready.”
Transitions are a very difficult thing for young children. They are perfectly focused on the here and now of the world around them. They may not be ready to suddenly change to another place or activity. They need some warning, time to anticipate what’s coming, prepare for it and have confidence that they can handle what’s coming next. They need to feel valued and understood so they know that what they were doing meant something and was respected. Oh, but wait, it’s not just young children. It’s me too. When I think about leaving Village I say I am ready because I have been given all of this by the community. I am well prepared. I was allowed to try new things, lots of new things. Some I did well, some not so well. I was allowed to fail and find a different way, a better way. This has given me some confidence in what I do after Village. I have been made to feel that what I did and how I contributed while I was there mattered. I can’t begin to count the number of appreciations, hugs, comments, encouragements, and acts of support that were given to me during my time at Village. It’s just what Village is – a school for everyone. The personal development and preparations for the future have been happening at Village these last seven years for me right along with my children.
I will miss Village very much. It is a special place. I am happy when I am there. I have made thousands of connections with children and adults that have warmed my heart and put a smile on my face. I will take those with me and be ready for whatever comes next.