The first month of the school year has come and gone. For a large number of our families in our Toddler and Children’s House communities this may be your child’s first experience in school or separating from his/her family and a parents first time “letting go”. It is amazing to see the progress our students (and parents) have made in this short period of time. Thank you for the support you have shown during this time! I look forward to reminiscing with you about this period in your child’s life when we celebrate their graduation from Lauremont School.

As a parent, you are your child’s primary educator and caregiver. You provide your child with knowledge, guidance and support and buffer them from life’s ups and downs. You lay the foundation for your child’s development socially, emotionally, intellectually, physically and spiritually and will continue to nourish this success throughout life. You have surrounded your child with love and a safe environment during their early years. Now you have done your research to find the best educational experience for your child. Your choice in Lauremont School is a wise one! The first steps for your child beyond the comfort of the home are often the hardest for parents. Your child is ready to expand their experiences, enrich their knowledge and engage with others; we look forward to being an extension of your home.

During the first weeks of school, our faculty, staff and students have been building new connections and rekindling relationships with students and families as they take time to get to know your child. Young children are making friends and learning to cooperate with children of different ages and abilities, respecting each other’s work and the space needed to complete a task and treating each other in a courteous manner. I am always amazed when I see a toddler approach another with a tissue to wipe their tears or a five year old supporting a new CH 2 while checking their work or showing them new areas in the playground. Parents and teachers have been connecting with the same goal in mind – the well-being and development of the child. A positive home school partnership is essential for success and we look forward to open communication, celebrating and problem solving together during your child’s journey at Lauremont School.

This poem has always been special to me, as it visualizes the positive partnerships we have together with a common goal – the well-being and nurturing of your child!

UNITY

(Anonymous 1998)

I dreamed I stood in a studio and watched two sculptors there.

The clay they used was a young child’s mind and they fashioned it with care.

One was a teacher; the tools she used were books and music and art.

One, a parent with a guiding hand and a gentle loving heart.

Day after day, the teacher toiled with touch that was deft and sure;

While the parents labored by her side and polished and smoothed it o’er.

And when at last their task was done, they were proud of what they had wrought.

For this thing they had molded in the child could neither be sold nor bought.

And each agreed they would have failed if they had worked alone;

For behind the parent stood the school and behind the teacher, the home.

I look forward to growing our relationship over this academic year and beyond through casual conversations, Parent Teacher interviews, Lauremont School events and Parent Education workshops (information coming soon). If you have any questions do not hesitate to contact your child’s teachers or myself.