Celebrating Betsy!

Today we honored our Guidance Counselor, Betsy McCall, by celebrating her 5th Anniversary of being cancer free by holding a pink out. The day was finished by announcing that Betsy had also been chosen as our Teacher of the Year! Congratulations Betsy - you deserve it!!!

When Your Past Meets The Present...Again

Tonight was the first of our Open House nights. Fourth and Fifth Grades showcased their day and our sweet, little Kindergartners spent the time happily pointing out the special things in their classrooms and sharing the work they've already accomplished. I have such a sweet spot for Kindergarten. It was where I spent all but one year of my teaching career. Today one of my 21 year old (yikes) past Kindergartners was standing at the front counter as I rounded the door to my office. I recognized her immediately and was thrilled to learn she was getting married this weekend even though in my mind she'll always be five.

To Africa With Love!

Spent some time communicating today with a Chets teacher who is currently serving as a missionary in Africa. Even though Beth is living her dream teaching halfway around the globe she is still a part of our school family and we miss her. Looks like she misses us too - at least a little more than Five Guys!!

The Unexpected

Sometimes things just happen that require immediate attention outside of the school day. Today I had to return to school to help deal with a situation. Enough said.

Nobody Cries Alone In My Presence!

Tissues are a necessary staple on my desk. Seems like pretty regularly somebody cries in my office - teachers, parents, students and even me! Our hearts are so heavily invested in this work that sometimes our emotions take over. Today I listened, and cried, as a heartsick teacher anguished over a child in distress. I then went immediately into make a plan and fix it mode but my heart is still so heavy.

And On The Seventh Day Sometimes There's Work

Today I attended the Community Missions Expo at Chets Creek Church to showcase volunteer opportunities at our school and at the MARC at Portside. I am so grateful for the extraordinary partnership with this church that has spanned our entire existence as a school. It was my pleasure today to serve.

It's Rick Pinchot Day at The Creek!

Today we celebrated the fact that three teachers were nominated for a very prestigious award and one of them was selected as a finalist. Rick Pinchot was speechless today as he learned he was one of three finalists in the state of Florida for the Presidential Award of Excellence in the Teaching of Mathematics and Science! This is a huge accomplishment and I couldn't be prouder of him. Congratulations Rick!!!