Everyone Loves a Do-Over
It seems like only yesterday that we were heading off into summer with the anticipation of fun and relaxation – days filled with popsicles and lemonade, lathered in sun tan lotion with sand between our toes and the taste of salt on our lips. Vacation plans stretched ahead, promising us new adventures and much needed time with family and friends. The stress of school and work faded away, replaced with late nights and lazy mornings.
And then it was over. What once looked like a marathon course quickly evolved into a sprint, and we found ourselves in the starting blocks of a new school year. As difficult as it is to shed the slower pace of summer, there is something about starting a new school year that generates its own excitement. I can still remember, as a child, looking forward with a mix of joy and jiggers to that first day. New clothes, new shoes, new book bag and new lunch pail – new classroom, new books, new teacher, new friends and new goals.
There are not many times in our lives when we get to have a “Do-Over.” School is the exception. Every fall (or late summer nowadays) we get to begin again. A brand new beginning. A fresh start. This year we will listen more and fidget less. This year we will be kinder. This year we will smile more. This year we will do our homework without complaining and finish our project with time to spare. We will be more organized, write neater and study harder. This year we will do something new. Try out for the basketball team, play an instrument or audition for the school play.
The joy and anticipation of a new school year is not reserved for the children only. We all experience it. Teachers who limp toward the finish line in June can be found sneaking into their classrooms in early August, loaded down with goodies they have been collecting from the dollar store. Bulletin boards begin to take on life and lesson plan books begin to fill with new ideas and fresh strategies.
And be honest, Mom and Dad, you too felt it – the comfort of settling into the routine and rhythm of a new year, the anticipation of new experiences and learning milestones for your child.
Let’s face it … everyone loves a Do-Over!!
Carolyn Kitchel – Vice Principal
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