~Henrik Ibsen
As I looked out at the Glendale School playground over the last three days, I was truly mesmerized and humbled by the growing sense of community before me. The flurry of volunteers setting up tents, assembling fruit trays and coffee while others unloaded trailers of colourful, mysterious shapes of metal. The commotion of gravel trucks loading and unloading for days. The digging and clamour of old equipment being removed and the growing sense of mystery, wonder and excitement before us was truly inspiring.
In three short days, countless volunteers worked tirelessly together to build the dream of a new playground for our students. Four years in the making, the building of a playground is an excellent example of the important role that our families play in the lives of our children. Furthermore, it is an outstanding example of what is possible when families and schools work collaboratively together. Standing and looking at the fruits of our labours, one parent commented that the community building efforts of parents directly reflect on the school (or something like that- I should have written it down, Karen!) and it’s true. I see this each school day in every smile, conversation and learning opportunity I experience with our students.
(… I also learned is that an ice pack feels really good after a day of shovelling and hammering. I imagine we have a lot of sore volunteers today!)
Michelle Speight is the proud principal of Glendale School- She finds endless joy in every day with children, inspirational educators and supportive families