Thankful

Thanksgiving is a time to gather with family and friends, share a meal, and reflect on what we’re thankful for. When I speak with parents of Madrona students, I often hear many reasons for gratitude. They talk about the care and attention their child receives, the joy of seeing their child begin to form friendships, and the comfort of knowing their child feels safe enough to take chances, both in learning and in social growth.

What I see in all of this is a community that strives to look after one another. Like any family, there will be times of difference and disagreement, but at the end of the day, we all want the same thing: for each other to succeed.

Madrona is truly a special place. It serves a population of students and families who are often underserved in the broader community. Our school plays a vital role (not only for our students but for their families as well) by providing a space where children can be fully themselves and take risks in their learning. After all, true learning only happens when the possibility of making mistakes is real. Ours is a community that balances safety with the encouragement to take those important risks.

I am deeply thankful for the opportunity to spend my days with such wonderful students, staff, and families. I look forward to all that the rest of this school year will bring.