And that's a Wrap!

Whew! We have come to the end of this crazy year. I realized I never posted anything after the first week of school. I think because I felt in response mode most of this year, adapting to the ongoing changes in schedules and routines; I just never really had the thought of sharing "what's coming" or "what we are up to."

The first part of the year, I delivered lessons on SeeSaw and then later it was mix of Zooms and SeeSaw depending on individual class in person time. I wasn't able to visit the kids in classrooms like I would in a normal year, but I was grateful to be able to still visit virtually and keep those connections. This year we talked about Friendship (especially what that might look like in a virtual world), Empathy, staying positive, using a Growth Mindset, celebrating Diversity & Inclusion, Courage, Assertion, Responsibility, Self Control & managing big feelings, and Careers. Wow - we did a lot!

The highlight of my year was Zoom hang outs. My goal was to find ways to keep kids connected to each other and their school community. I also wanted to ensure the opportunity for social skills early on while recess and lunch weren't happening. I created groups that combined virtual and in person kids, across pods, and friends that asked to come together. I had a lot of fun with them playing games, telling stories, and just laughing. I did a survey with our 3-5 kids and 94% reported feeling connected to friends and 85% to the school community.

I am so proud of how our kids have persevered through this year. They, along with their families, and our staff; have earned this summer break. I can't wait to see everyone next year and am looking forward to a bit more "normal." ENJOY!