It's About Time
The arctic chill, teamed with the approaching shortest day of the year, always puts me into a state of hibernation. Not necessarily the hibernation of being tucked under a down comforter (though that is quite appealing), but the hibernation of being inside and rethinking my use of and thoughts on time. In our busy world, time seems to pass without my noticing. As we are drawn inside to escape the chill, I challenge myself, and you, to think differently about time. Rather than letting time take control, I choose to prioritize the time of this holiday season. I embrace this as a time of reflection, celebration, and generosity.  Inspired by the UPark community over the last few months, I share my take on time with you.

Time of Reflection
This time of year always inspires me to reflect on choices made and to evaluate successes in order to set goals for the New Year. As a faculty and staff, we are reflecting on student data to celebrate learning and set goals. As a Collaborative School Committee, we are marking the elements that make UPark a vibrant and unique community, while prioritizing our next steps and goals for the future. On a personal note, I strive to remember what it most important--prioritizing time with family and friends, and taking care of the wonderful people in our school community.

Time of Celebration
In this season of parties and festivities, I must take the time to celebrate the honors of our school. UPark was again rated HIGH on the School Accountability Report issued from the state, and the rating index has increased moving us closer to Excellent. I also celebrate our amazing band program that in three and a half months has nurtured some 40 new musicians who confidently share their melodies and love of music. They join the intermediate band members who I can thank for the repeated beat of Funky Monkey that I can’t seem to get out of my head.

Time of Giving
I continue to be awed by the generous outpouring of support from this community. When our Social Worker, Barb Lamana, mentioned that local clothing banks had no children’s coats, our community stepped up with an outstanding coat and clothing drive. Inspired by the monumental difference made by an individual, namely Greg Mortenson as chronicled in the book, Three Cups of Tea, our 5th graders decided to organize the collection of Pennies for Peace to support the opening of schools in Afghanistan. Extending the nutritional benefits celebrated at school into the home, our Wellness Backpack program sends home 20 backpacks each Friday to bring nutritious food to the families of our students. This quiet yet groundbreaking program has touched the hearts of many, including leadership at Whole Foods who have generously committed to donating healthy food for our backpacks and snacks through the end of the year. Last, but not least, I can’t help but smile as I watch tiny and not so tiny fingers work diligently to create cards and crafts to bring home to those they love. (The kids can’t wait for you to receive these treasures!)

In this season of darkness, let’s all make time for the light we find within each other. I am grateful for each of you! Take time to rest, reflect, celebrate, and give this season. I look forward to seeing you next year!

Click here to view the archive of messages from Principal Williams.

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