As I watch our children end another school year, I am nostalgic and reminiscent. My memories are filled of our kids – from before. Their tiny voices. Their hesitant steps across the threshold. Their anticipation and wonder of what school may bring.

And now? Oh, they have grown!

As is the case inside any typical greenhouse, growth happens slowly, so slowly that it may not be noticed at any given time. Similarly, inside our Greenhouse our children’s growth unfolded quietly over time; but now as we look closely, we see the vast evidence of their growth everywhere!

This year inside our Greenhouse:

Confidence grew here.

Curiosity grew here.

Belonging grew here.

Friendships took root.

New skills emerged.

Active minds bloomed.

Children learned to ask questions,

Solve problems, take risks and discover the world around them.

The growth was not measurable on a given day. Not all of it is obvious just by looking. But it all happened this year inside our Greenhouse.

For those families that are preparing for their next adventure in a new school or city, we hope that the seeds that were planted here at Greenhouse continue to grow. May the seeds of wonder, kindness, confidence and resilience take root wherever your journey leads. Though it may be time for your child to walk outside of Greenhouse, they will carry with them all that we have nurtured and cultivated here. For those that are returning to Greenhouse — for summer or in the fall — know we are ready to continue to provide the perfect growing and learning conditions inside our Greenhouse.

A special thank you to the faculty and staff. I think in my (maybe a bit overworked?) greenhouse analogy our teachers are the gardeners. They carefully nurture, encourage, and notice each child’s unique growth. Through their dedication and care, they help create an environment where children can put down roots, blossom with confidence, and grow into the amazing unique individuals we see today.

Also a wam thank you to the PA Leadership Natasha Graham and Jasmine Polite for their partnership and support throughout the year.

Also, thank you to the PA class reps, event chairs, committee volunteers and parents that supported Greenhouse throughout the year. We are deeply grateful for the trust you place in us and for the partnership we share with you. Together, we create the perfect conditions for our children to grow and flourish inside and outside our Greenhouse!

Here is to a summer filled with play, sunshine and joy,

Renee