The holiday season has always been one of my favorite times of year, as it is a special time of caring and sharing with others. The holiday season is also a great time for reflection. What a year this has been to reflect upon, and one in which Orcas Island School District has shined – an extraordinary staff that has always gone the extra mile for our students took it upon themselves to step up their game in the wake of (and continuation of) a pandemic with great resilience, flexibility, and creativity, all the while keeping our students safe and engaged in learning! Dedicated and devoted parents and our supportive island community added extra layers of safety for our staff and students! I am once again reminded of how much we have to be thankful for here on Orcas Island.
In the spirit of the season, I encourage you to take time out to observe those holiday traditions you have shared with your family year after year, and possibly start a new one together. For my family, it has been the simple tradition of creating homemade pizzas. Some kids may grumble at the prospect of observing a tradition or two, but traditions have a powerfully positive impact on children and families. They draw us together. They create stability and comfort throughout our lives. I like to think that we never outgrow traditions; they simply grow with us. One day, you may be surprised to see your adult child’s alarm at the prospect of overlooking a treasured tradition that you thought they had outgrown years before!
On behalf of the OISD School Board and staff, I wish everyone a peaceful and joyous holiday season safely surrounded by loved ones.
