Though my kids may not think they actually left school with their July was spent either in math class or at camp where they actually go to school, this is in fact the "most wonderful time of the year". Back to school is here!
Growing up, I loved everything the start of school brought with it: new school clothes (even a fresh uniform is a nice thing!), new markers and pencil crayons, binders and fresh, blank, refill paper waiting to be filled and all the hubub that accompanied the last week of summer holidays. Now my kids are happy for fresh uniforms - at least new shirts, pants and socks - as markers and paper have been replaced with a laptop and fancy software. Well, there is always new shoes!
This year, we're looking forward to:
- Adventures in boarding for Claire (the final year of high school is mandatory boarding for all students in their school). She has her fridge, fuzzy robe and slippers; and, plenty of ramen noodles and KD.
- All four of the kids being in one school. For one year. It's better than nothing!
- University applications and the process of finding the right school for next year and trips to those institutions of higher learning to confirm the right fit.
- Through the summer there was a roll-out of new laptops. Still not Mac's, but hopefully better than what they've been using.
- Cole continues to suffer from concussion symptoms and we're hoping he can participate in alternative non-sport co-curriculars. The requests have been made of the right people.
- Less drama. Um, well, it is high school. I can hope.
- New courses. New teachers. New curriculum. New administrative team.
- Embracing change. A far better approach than the alternative!
- Opportunities to rise to challenges: learning from mistakes made last year and making better choices this year and beyond.
- Remembering that we teach people how to treat us and we are our own best advocate.
- Standing up to the bullies, as we know they are cowards. Even in numbers.
School is not just about books and learning their contents, but maneuvering around people and pushing ourselves to learn more things about: service, arts, academics and athletics. I love that our school, though flawed like anything human-conceived and -run, gives all four of my kids four unique experiences, tailored to their interests, strengths and weaknesses.
And what, you may wonder, will I do with my days between 8AM drop off and 5PM pick up? No doubt I'll find something to occupy my time. Well, in fact, that is exactly what has been going on. Caden has just completed his prep courses for e-school, French and Math; Claire is readying herself to move into boarding; Cole and Chloé have poured all over the calendar and have a game plan for the school year ahead that includes great marks and I've spent the last few weeks putting the College Shop together with all kinds of new and exciting products lining our shelves and playing "parent buddy" to a half-dozen new students starting next week!
We still have a few days to prepare. Most of our world went back to school yesterday, my kids and their classmates don't head back until next Monday.
I am hoping, with some free time, I'll catch up on my sleep, improve my health and read a couple of books!
What do you anticipate this new school year?
