Thanksgiving is around the corner and this has always been my favorite holiday. I have great memories of sitting around the table with my family enjoying a simple meal with lots of laughs. There were only four of us and we’d sit at that table trying to make my dad laugh so hard he would have to get up and walk away from the table, with his hands in the air, to catch his breath. That is when I learned the power of laughter. My mom, in tougher times, would always be there to remind me that “this too, shall pass.” Now, more than ever before, we need laughter and the hope that all of this will pass.

Thanksgiving isn’t just a day off of work or school, it is an opportunity to be there for one another and remember what each person brings to your life and recognize how they support you each and every day. This Thanksgiving I will be lucky enough to have most of my family with me and I will be able to step away from work for a little bit and be present in conversations and laughter. I hope the same for all of you. Whether it is on Thanksgiving or not, we need to remind ourselves of the importance of the people in our lives and the people who really are working to support each of us and our family members. This year I’ll be sharing my thanks with my family, friends and co-workers who have been lifting me up, providing the laughs, encouragement and understanding as each day brings its challenges.

Thank you to all of our families who support our students and teachers. Understanding and agreeing with all of the decisions we make is not possible. Recognizing that we are working towards the great good is what matters. I am thankful that we have a staff that, individually, never come to work without the intention of doing their very best. Please enjoy the coming holiday and the time to spend catching your breath.