Dear Families,
As the traditional school year comes to a close, I cannot help but reflect on the amazing year that FUM Preschool has had. There are so many aspects of the program that we have to celebrate.
Let me say first, it is such a privilege to work with such amazing children. Your child is your most treasured gift in life, and we are fortunate enough to share them with you, even if it is only for a few hours a day. As parents, you are your child’s first and best teacher and we are here to build on that foundation that you have laid. As a result, your children come in the door confident, secure and ready to play and learn. Most of them breeze by me in the hallway, excited to see what is happening in their classes each day. Sometimes they do not want to leave when the day is done – what a lovely way to complete their first school experiences – wanting more!
Parent involvement is another contributor to the success of the school. I am amazed at how many hours parents spend on Preschool business. Whether it is substituting for teachers, coordinating fund raisers, volunteering, helping on our workday, and so on, and so on. I am always pleasantly surprised when we send out an email asking for assistance – and we have many parents respond so quickly.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to each of you.
Another unique aspect of FUM Preschool is the relationships that form between the parents. I am struck by the comraderie among the classmates and their parents. I have seen no other school that has such a sense of community. We are very blessed.
And finally, the part that I work with most frequently – the teach- ers and staff. Our teachers are hardworking, dedicated, knowledge- able, loving, talented, nurturing, creative…I could go on and on. Beyond the regulations and standards, there is a wonderful balance of a shared child-centered philosophy and an array of individual teaching styles that is hard to find. The teachers rely on each other – as educational resources, for insight regarding former students, for equipment and materials, and simply as friends. There is a sense of teamwork and commitment to excellence that shows in each teaching team, and we – parents, children and administration are all the better for it.
What makes our school so unique? It is that 3-way partnership of children, parents and teachers. We are lucky enough to have successfully created a community of caring. Thank you to each FUMP family for your participation and support in 2011-2012. Here’s to another great year in 2012-2013!
Sandy Pennington, Preschool Director