On Being Grateful

Last week in Montpelier Pubic Schools was in a word: hectic.  There were only three days with students, with a half-day Professional Development Day and then a day and a half of parent teacher conferences.  In addition, Vertical Teams met after school on Monday and on Wednesday we hosted colleagues from Lamoille South Supervisory Union, Addison Northwest Supervisory Union and the Agency of Education for an Integrated Field Review.  To top it all off, there was a water main break that impacted Main Street Middle School on Thursday, so parent-teacher conferences needed to be rescheduled.  Just a couple of things on our plate...

It would be easy to say that's too much, and truth be told, it was an incredibly busy week.  And still, I came away feeling so tremendously proud of all the students, faculty, and staff in MPS.  Our week was wonderful and the credit goes to all the adults and students who come to MPS on a daily basis.  Everyone, every single person rose to meet the high expectations of our week.

I am grateful for our students - first and foremost.  They bring a candor and honesty that children are known for.  Yet, our students impressed our visitors by how thoughtful and articulate they were about their own learning, from UES to MSMS to MHS.  We know this is who they regularly are.  It was validating to hear it from a group of visitors.

I am grateful for our staff.  From instructional assistants supporting the work of classroom teachers to support staff ensuring that critical work is accurate and complete to our food service professionals ensuring we eat a healthy meal, to our facilities crew showing pride in our places.  Stewardship of the people and stewardship of our buildings, ensures that relationships are preserved and maintained while learning happens.

I am grateful for our teachers.  The consummate professionals who serve our students day in and day out.  They ensure that each and every learner that comes into the classrooms in our district, PK - 12 has the opportunity to grow and learn given their individual potentials.  They are dedicated to their craft, they are dedicated to their students, they are dedicated to their professional development.

I am grateful for our Leadership Team.  I am humbled by the educational leaders that serve the children and families of Montpelier.  Their openness to growth, their desire to grow in their work, and their humor sustains me as we lead the work of MPS.

While I know that Thanksgiving is still a few weeks away, out of the hectic nature of the first full week of November, I find myself fully basking in the gratitude for those who serve Montpelier with me.  It continues to be a professional privilege to do this meaningful work.  Thank you!