Dear Maple Village Parents,
In Waldorf education, we often speak of a child's 9-year change - a year like no other that marks the end of one part of childhood and the transition to a new developmental phase. Sometimes, a complete transformation can occur. When thinking about this year and all the changes we encountered, I can’t help but realize that we, as a school, are actually also in our 9th year.
This year included not only great successes, but also the challenges a 9th year can bring. In addition to the joy of increased enrollment across the board, our largest 1st grade to date, new talented teachers, top state and city awards, impressive plays and performances, and individual academic achievements, I want to acknowledge that this year was also quite unusual for several reasons. Unprecedented in our history of steady staffing, we had two teachers go on long-term leave and two teachers exit mid-year. We faced these changes one by one, and in the end, were reminded once again why people say that our school is unlike many others. We gained two very experienced teachers and leaders, and current faculty jumped in where needed. Not once did anyone even hesitate to take on a new role. They did it with eagerness and even thankfulness. In January, our sweet young Angelina passed away. We came together in tears and strength; our students lit candles, drew pictures, sang songs and we continue to hold her and her parents in our community. What we did in the face of change models true dedication and love for the children in our care. We know when obstacles arise - that is the time of the most growth.
Looking ahead, we are very excited about the changes to come. Next year, we are fulfilling our vision of reaching 8th grade and holding our first graduation. For the first time, we will be offering a full year of Eurythmy classes and are thrilled to have Sebastien Dupuis join our faculty. We are adding a new grade and teacher (welcome Katy Gannon!) and an exclusive garden area to our site, which also opens up our play area a bit more. We have made significant investments in technology for administration/faculty, including school management software and Google for Education. This will allow us to provide more accurate information and better communication to you.
Yesterday, our faculty sat for hours, sharing our stories one by one. And the common thread was how deeply and authentically thankful we are to be working in this place - where we support each other thoroughly - where each of us takes our jobs very seriously, but we don’t take ourselves too seriously - where we put your children first and form everything around that - where we have watched our students grow so much in a nurturing environment that sometimes it blows our minds - where we see each child as unique and important – where we are incredibly thankful for the parents who walk the walk with us and work so hard to support our school.
That is what makes us - us.
We started the year strong, grew up, transformed, and ended the year grateful. We hope you did as well.
Have a wonderful, relaxing and rejuvenating summer. We can’t wait to start our 10th year with you!
Warmly and with much appreciation,
Lisa
