The Sandbox | December 13, 2017
Wise Words
I've always loved music — all genres. But, I have a particular memory of the first time I heard the National Symphony orchestra as a young child. I remember sitting on the edge of my seat, enthralled as they played Bach. I don't remember the exact piece, only that I was hooked. What intrigued me most was the conductor. He was a magician. His bow was his magic wand, the players and instruments were the tools of his profession. Rather than feats of illusion, he created music that enraptured us and led us to new places in our souls. His magic was weaving these seemingly disparate people and instruments into an artistic feast.
Leading a school — or any organization, really — is a little like conducting a symphony. A symphony conductor, like a Head of School, has to intimately know every instrument, and every section of the music. She needs to realize each person's unique gift and then understand how to unlock their human potential. She needs to envision how all of these beautifully unique pieces fit together in harmony, to create the perfect masterpiece.
A Head of School also has a vision, which incorporates an interpretation of the Board's strategic plan, designed to utilize the school's stakeholders in a way that moves the school forward. And, when it works, it is the most amazing music imaginable. But just like in a symphony orchestra, conductors may change over time. But the music that new conductors orchestrate is no less beautiful or moving. Sometimes the interpretation is different but the music remains the same.
I know that it is now time for a change in conductors. And while I'm not sure what the future holds for me, I am very comfortable with this fact. It's like what we tell our children, sometimes you just have to be open for new opportunities. The future may be a bit of a mystery now, but there are things that I do know in my heart. I know that I have been called to do this work. I know that early childhood is not just a vocation for me but an avocation, and it will be part of my life forever. I also know that NCRC will be in good hands and that the future is bright and positive because the mission of NCRC remains at the core of the organization. I am excited about the prospects for this remarkable school and I can't wait to see what the next chapter holds for this amazing institution.
My commitment to NCRC and its children remains firm and it is rooted in my belief in all that the school stands for. And that commitment will continue until the very last day of school. So let's celebrate who we are and what we've meant to each other. Let's spend the next few months creating memories.
I have been overwhelmed by the support of the entire community. Thank you for your love. I will take it with me wherever I go.
Warmly,
Val
Don't Forget: Half-Day on Friday!
The Last Day of School before Winter Break is this Friday, December 15th. It will be a half-day.
Please Note:
NO PM Classes: Treetop & Explorer Classes end at noon; No Lunch Bunch/No Later Gators/No Mi Casa Uno
Coming Up...
Please check the Lost & Found before Winter Break. Anything left after Friday will be donated.
Parents, Grandparents, and Caregivers are invited to visit the brand new post office in the front hall! Spread some cheer by writing your child's class a special note that will be delivered before the holidays!
All materials will be provided!
- Community Outreach Committee
Fresh Faces
Please help us in welcoming Lauren Dewey-Rosenfeld, NCRC's new Speech-Language Pathologist! Lauren earned her Master's of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from MGH Institute of Health Professions in Boston, Massachusetts and has significant experience, particularly working in schools with children. She is also the newest member of NCRC's Child Development Team alongside our Occupational Therapist, Marian Brice, and our School Counselor, Judith Wides.
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Anna Zogby (Substitute Teacher) is a full-time graduate student at AU and began subbing at NCRC this fall. To date, she has assisted in Bunny 2, Beehive, Rainbow, Sunshine, and Treetop.
Francisco Cruz (Substitute Teacher) is a private tutor with a BA in Russian from Georgetown University. He too began subbing for NCRC this fall. Francisco has subbed in all classrooms and is also currently assisting in Lunch Bunch while Mary Bicocchi is on leave.
NCRC Fund
THANK YOU to the parents, grandparents, faculty, and friends of NCRC who have already contributed this year to support our mission!
Please don't hesitate to contact the NCRC Fund Chairs - or Chris - with any questions regarding the NCRC Fund.
Ready to Get Away?
In the midst of the hectic holiday season, the answer is most likely, "YES!" Whether it's a weekend on the beach with your family, a weekend staycation with your significant other, or a day unwinding at the spa, everyone could use a vacation. With that in mind, let's make sure our fellow families are offered opportunities to bid on getaway options at the Auction that will guarantee rest, relaxation, and fun!
Getaway solicitation and donation ideas:
- Day/night/weekend/week at your favorite hotel, resort, or spa
- Vacation home stay
- Airline miles or hotel nights/giftcards
- Sporting or event tickets or packages (a few hours at a game counts as getting away!)
For getaway-related donations to the Auction, contact Getaways Co-Chair, Renee Footer, or Lindsay. Please touch base before soliciting a business to ensure that we haven't already reached out.
Bon Voyage!
Early Bird Auction Tickets: 3 More Days!
All net proceeds of the Auction go directly to NCRC's Tuition Assistance Fund
Only 3 more days to take advantage of Early Bird tickets for the Auction!
Since our printed invitation will arrive during the busy holiday season, we've opened up ticketing early. Early Bird tickets are available for $150 per guest until 11:59pm on Friday, December 15th. Beginning on Dec. 16th, ticket prices will rise to $175 per guest.
Contact Lindsay or the 90th Committee with questions or donation ideas!
NCRC Rainbow Camp
Rainbow Camp registration will begin on Thursday, February 1st!
Rainbow Camp will be held June 12th through July 20th. (Families can register for all 6 weeks or 4 weeks.)
Creative Camp will run July 23rd through July 27th.
*Please contact Mary Farmer for more information.
School Calendar
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National Child Research Center | 3209 Highland Place NW, Washington, DC 20008
P:(202)363-8777 | F: (202)244-3459