Miss Asparagus Aethiopicus

A "new" year begins long before day number
 one commences in any school. Summer is in
  reality a very busy time  of the year for folks in the
 business of caring for the community of kids they serve.  

 Supplies are ordered, grants prepared, schedules created, rooms painted, buildings cleaned, potential staff are interviewed, teachers do professional development, the
grounds around buildings are cared for, registration occurs,
 and the inevitable last minute surprises are dealt with.

A final flurry of preparation on the part of many is
upon us, a predictable ritual as August "breathes her last." 

My penchant for filling learning spaces with something green and beautiful leads me to care for plants over summer breaks, returning them when classes at Parkside resume.  Last week
one colleague made the returning greenery feel right at home.  
He moved an empty desk to a nearby window, a
 fortunate move because this beauty will need the sunlight.
He smiled and then prepared a name tag as well.  I can see
that she's a Chicago Bears fan; the kids will love it!

Schools are made strong and safe places of learning for kids when we support them in all ways possible.  Developing routines and rituals that sustain a human connection
for youth and adults alike, is what gives a school 
community the ingredients for success.  

I hope Fern has a great school year, along with her
teacher, classmates, and the many people who make
Parkside a valuable part of the path we call "life."  
May that be so for all those who are heading back
 to the classroom, wherever that may be.