Bright Idea: A Letter to My ALC Family
Dear ALC Family,
We survived. We profoundly carved a path through quite a treacherous year. We put our children’s need for growth and development at school in front of our own fears, and that is something to recognize. Each time I venture into one of our magical schools to visit the superheroes, I mean teachers, administrative staff and Inclusion Specialists, who work in them, I often find myself humbled just to be there. I walk through the school halls and the sounds of tiny voices, little giggles and warm teacher greetings make all the struggles feel endlessly worth it all. The sight of a child accomplishing something for the very first time… worth it. The sound of teachers and inclusion specialists providing unwavering support, masks and all… worth it, all of it! And to imagine, last March, we weren’t sure we’d ever return to these magical places we call preschools.
There have been many moments this year as I’ve navigated this role in which I questioned everything. Literally, everything. What are we doing? Am I capable of making these decisions? Will our teachers be safe? Will our children be safe? Will all of this be worth it in the end? And from all of those questions, I’ve come to one conclusion: None of what we accomplished this year would have been possible without every single one of you.
So, ALC Family, thank you all for your endless dedication to your students and families. Thank you for your courage as you entered a world with so many unknowns. I will always remember your commitment to your students or your very own children in such a daunting time. Thank you for being such incredible and impactful role models to the many little eyes that look up to you each day. You created light in a time of darkness and empowered others to do the same.
I’m just so proud to know you. I’m inspired by you. I’m humbled by you. I’m encouraged to keep going because of you. Thank you for simply being you.
Happy Holidays!
Much Love,
Mary Rose White
Program Coordinator
