Blog

Today was a special day at the school. In his creative writing seminar, Mr. Don gave the students a prompt under the heading “Bemoaning Modern Discourse”. The students were to write a letter to someone past or present. Some students wrote to a parent, some an old friend, and others to themselves at different stages in their lives. One even wrote to the President.

Each week the students share their writings speaking in front of the class. Often these sharings are very personal and sometimes emotional and difficult, but the school community has created a positive, comfortable and safe environment for this to happen. Mr. Don’s writing seminar is an important part of this and we are thankful for his many years of mentoring and teaching at the school.

The last thing we did before going on Winter Break was to watch “It’s a Wonderful Life”. It’s always been gratifying to see students absorbed in and moved by this 1947 movie. This Frank Capra classic explores many themes rooted in important values of family, compassion and community.

George Bailey, the lead character played perfectly by Jimmy Stewart, is a multidimensional character. He’s a good person who sacrifices and adjusts his dreams for family and community yet is real enough to question himself, and to take out his stress and frustrations in ways that are not good. After losing his faith in himself and collapsing under the pressure, he comes to appreciate what is important in his life and is saved by the love of his family and support of the community.

Every experience in The Community School is meant to be meaningful and foster growth and maturity. Rather than just seek the superficiality often associated with this season, the students embraced a deeper story that encourages us to consider and sharpen our values.

We are proud of our students and thankful for all of those who make this school possible. Wishing everyone a happy, healthy and fulfilling holiday season.