Thanks to everyone who came to the Parent Partners meeting Wednesday night. For those who were not able to make it, just talk with Kris about the many different opportunities to volunteer your skills and interests this year — there’s something for everyone. Just check out the TEAM button on the blog. It was a fun night, full of energy and good will. We started with a statement of NSW values that have been honed over the years of professional development by the teachers:
RELATIONSHIP people matter. All people: children, parents, teachers, staff, neighbors, community are all considered, involved and embraced as citizens of our school context.
TRUST We agree to be flexible with other’s ideas, willing to disclose our own and change our minds.
DISCOURSE Issues discussed are about the work, not personal. We agree to contradict, hold ourselves and others accountable and we will move into the uncomfortable to seek agreements that benefit families and children and community.
AESTHETICS ARE ETHICS We see, feel, hear, smell and imagine welcoming, respect, peace in every moment of every day.
PLAYFUL INQUIRY Deep engagement in each moment reveals a joyful, playful commitment to work. Work as the joy of discovery.
Here are a few quotes captured by your ever-reliable documentation committee:
“I’m excited to see how invested the parents are in the work beyond the classroom. [Regarding volunteering] there’s an openness to yes’s and no’s, a freedom to choose whatever’s best for you, not too much pressure.” — Devin (of Miles, WW)
“This school is really for all of us. The children, and for parents, too. My daughter feels welcome, I feel welcome, too. It’s such a non-judgmental place.” — Janelle (of Hazel, EW)
“I’m glad my son has landed in a relaxed and spirited environment.” — Brian (of Van, WW)
