2024-25 Ashley Read '05, Head of Early Childhood
May 26, 2023
Dear Parents,
It is hard to believe that I am writing my last e-newsletter for the 2022 - 2023 school year. I would be remiss not to thank the incredible ECC faculty and staff for an exceptional year. The teachers found every opportunity to embrace hands-on learning, develop authentic experiences for our students, and consistently inspire inquiry and creative thinking. They are amongst the best of the best in the nation. There is no doubt that our teachers love what they do.
This week's final thought is perfect to conclude a school year: "We are better together." I have observed our community working together in many ways to ensure that our students feel loved, safe, and celebrated. Our OPC is comprised of incredible volunteers who worked together all year. They hosted class parties, celebrated our teachers during Teacher Appreciation Week, and volunteered at our many student-driven events, to name a few. Thank you, parents, for modeling to our students that we truly are ""better together." Thank you for the positive partnerships and support you showed our ECC Community this past year.
As we head into summer break, you may wonder how you can continue supporting your child. To put it simply, sit down, put your technology away, be intentional, and play. Of course, reading to/with your child, and completing an activity centered around reading, writing, or math, are both wonderful ways to keep your child engaged and learning. However, research shows that play is essential for children to develop their cognitive, physical, social, and emotional skills. We encourage you to find intentional time for your children to play in structured ways (outdoor sports, storytelling, dance, board games, music) and unstructured ways (creative play, dress-up, imaginative games, exploring new places, legos). As Fred Rogers stated, "Play is often talked about as if it was a relief from serious learning, but for children, play is serious learning. Play is really the work of childhood."
Kindergarten Parents:
First through Fourth-grade school supplies for next year are on sale now. Please follow the link to order. Pre-ordered school supplies will be in your child's classroom before the first day of school. For those who enjoy choosing your own school supplies, you will find the list here.
*Please note, students entering grades Preschool - Kindergarten do not need to purchase supplies as the school provides them.
We hope to see many of you this summer at Camp. If you haven't registered, now is the time! Follow the links, if you are interested in our Summer Camps, Sports Camps or Summer Readiness classes.
From all of us at the ECC, we hope you have a wonderful, safe, and fun summer filled with many lasting memories. We thank you all for your support and look forward to an incredible 2023 - 2024 school year.
Warmly,
Ashley Read
