Ashley Read '05, Head of Early Childhood

May 24, 2024

 

Dear Families,

As we approach the end of another school year, it's a perfect time to reflect on the incredible journey our children have undertaken over the past months. It's been a year filled with growth, learning, and countless memorable moments. Here are some thoughts and suggestions as we wrap up this academic year.

“Don’t cry because it is over. Smile because it happened.” - Dr. Seuss

I can’t promise that as we, the Read Family, send our youngest daughter onto the Lower School a few tears will not be shed. I can assure that as I reflect on the 7 years that our daughters, Avery Kate and Finley, spent in the ECC I will smile. The ECC is where my children learned that kindness matters. It is where they were nurtured, encouraged, and inspired every day. Where they were taught to take risks, fall down, and get back up. It is where they learned that learning is cool and fun. That the world is full of opportunities and you can truly be anything you want to be. That teachers are a gift. They learned to wonder, to look, to care. On behalf of all parents, thank you teachers. You are the reason we do, in fact, cry when it is over, yet smile because it happened. 

As you head into summer break, it's an ideal time for relaxation and fun. However, it's also a great opportunity to keep the learning momentum going in a fun and engaging way. Here are a few ideas:

• Reading Adventures: Encourage your child to dive into books that interest them. Local libraries often have summer reading programs with exciting themes and rewards.

• Educational Trips: Plan visits to museums, science centers, or historical sites. These trips can be both educational and enjoyable.

• Outdoor Activities: Encourage physical activities like biking, hiking, or even simple backyard games. Physical exercise is crucial for healthy development and can be a great way to spend quality family time.

• Limit screentime. Kids are modeling what they see. Let’s all commit to putting down our own devices and playing.

We would also like to extend our gratitude to all the parents for your unwavering support throughout the school year. Your involvement and encouragement play a crucial role in your child's education. Whether it's helping with homework, participating in school events, or simply being there to listen, your efforts make a significant difference.

On behalf of all of the ECC Faculty and Staff members, we hope you and your family have a wonderful, restful, and enriching summer break. We look forward to seeing all the bright, smiling faces ready for a new school year in the fall.

Mark your calendars:

• August 17: Back-to-School Bash and Meet the Teacher 9:00 - 11:00 a.m.

• August 19: ECC Parent Information Night 6:00 - 7:30 p.m. (adults only)

• August 21: 1st Day of School

• August 22: Lower School Parent Information Night

A message from Dr. Schecter for Kindergarten Families ONLY:   

School supply kits for next year are on sale now. Please follow the link to order. Pre-ordered school supply kits will be in your child's classroom on the first day of school. For those who enjoy choosing your own school supplies, you will find the list here.

Warm Regards,

Ashley Read