Moments of Legacy

Dear Parents,

Right from the first words of "It's Time to Sing a Song" sung by the Discoverer class I could tell that something special was about to happen. The enthusiasm and joy that was on those 3 and 4 year old faces sent a wave of smiles throughout the audience. The simply and superbly done "Warmup Number Round" by the Explorers' Chorus added to my own, and I'm certain every parent's, profound sense of pride in what the music program and the children had accomplished. As the notes of Pachelbel's "Canon in D" filled the room, people around me gave audible gasps and when the students finished, words like "incredible" and "amazing" were exchanged; and I know that my watery eyes were not the only ones. In fact every performance at Swan School's Spring Concert was absolutely wonderful. The concert was truly a testament to what can happen for children who are given bridges to the future as they begin to define their lives.

Tremendous pride in our students showed throughout the audience and in conversations after the concert. This pride, this sense of accomplishment, this knowledge that Swan School is a fantastic place for children, is in no small part thanks to the foresight that a number of parents had 25 years ago when the school was first begun. From the local grange meeting hall through to our current campus, the belief that an education of quality must support every part of a child's growth has been central to a Swan School education. It is that belief that led us to develop one of the most comprehensive elementary music programs in the region. The people who have been a part of Swan School's history for the past quarter century have left a legacy that we can be eternally grateful for.

While I watched our concert and later while I reflected on my own experiences at Swan School, I thought about what board member Tina McCleese said at the beginning of the concert, and I asked myself what part am I playing, what kind of legacy are all of us who are currently involved with Swan School leaving for those families yet to arrive? As I began answering that question I realized that Swan School has a very bright future ahead. We are poised to create an even greater depth to our educational program, to develop stronger threads linking all parts of our school, to bring a new level of connection throughout our community, and we are set to embrace an enhanced model of independent education that will last through the next 25 years.

As the school grows, becoming stronger and more sustainable, it's exciting to be able to think about what lies ahead and what we will be leaving behind for the students of the future.

Russ