On Being Thankful

This Thanksgiving, with the world seemingly changing faster than ever before -- a still raging pandemic, political tumult, more climate catastrophes, continued racial reckonings, and more-- let’s be thankful that schools have been a refuge for children. Schools have created spaces for their students to feel and be safe, surrounded by educators that care for their physical, emotional, and intellectual well-being. 

The impact of educators over the past twenty-one months will be felt by a generation of children, and the world will be better because of you. I hope that you have a wonderful, relaxing, and safe holiday weekend, filled with gratitude and grace for others and for yourself.

I’ve asked my team to share what they are thankful for, as well.
​-Brad

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“I am thankful for the joy, laughter, and challenges that come with having a three-year-old son, a job that pushes me to grow both professionally and personally, and a support system that makes it possible to manage anything that comes my way.”​ - Curt Brossman, Controller

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“One of the things I love about my work at One Schoolhouse is that with more than 250 schools in our consortium, we have a birds-eye view of what's happening nationally in independent schools. This fall, that's meant that we can see that schools everywhere are dealing with mid-year faculty departures. We've been receiving two or three calls every week from schools who are hoping that online learning is the solution to unexpected staffing changes. In those conversations, I always say the same thing first: ‘You aren't alone.’ Most of us who work as administrators in independent schools are islands of one--we're the only people who do our work, and it can be difficult to see the big picture. I am grateful to have the opportunity to work with Academic Leaders to make their islands a bit bigger, to be their partner in challenge and their cheerleader in success.”​ - Liz Katz, Assistant Head of School for School Partnerships

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“I am thankful for being present, in good health and good spirits and I am most thankful for my family, friends and community.”​ - Seanta Cleveland, Program Manager for Academics

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“We've all lost something over the past few years -- a loved one, self-control, a job, our color blindness, a piece of childhood, our sanity. I am immeasurably grateful to have discovered that, after the grief or anger or frustration or trauma subsides, what I put into the space that remains is wide open. It is an opportunity to create a sanctuary.” - Corinne Dedini, Assistant Head of School for Teaching & Learning

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“I am incredibly grateful for an abundant life. One where I enjoy tremendous health, security, stability and comfort. I am grateful to be ever-evolving in an ever-evolving world. Most of all, I am grateful for human connection and love and being surrounded and supported by kind, generous, big-hearted people.” - Amy Nyland, Director of Operations

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“For teaching me that change is constant, renewal is possible, diversity is enriching, and quiet is good, I give thanks to the gifts and wisdom of nature.”​ 
​- Meera Shah, Director of Studies

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​“I'm grateful for everyone who is fighting to defend the truth and for teachers’ and students' right to read and discuss great books in the face of attempted oppression.” - Sarah Hanawald, Assistant Head of School for PD & New Programs

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​“I am wildly thankful to work with the people I do- staff and teachers.  I feel like I have a dream job because I enjoy my colleagues so much.  I am also thankful for good health, something I probably will never take for granted after this pandemic.” - Lynnae Boudreau, Instructional Designer & Mathematics Teacher

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“I am grateful for the unexpected and unpredictable --- both remind me there is still so much to enjoy in this life. Be open and curious!”​ - Tracie Yorke, Instructional Designer for Equity, Inclusive Innovation, and Accessibility

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“I'm grateful for the warm welcome to the team that I've received, for the life-changing opportunities this year has brought me, and for the various communities I've been lucky enough to join. I'm grateful for my local used bookstore and for the coffee shop around the corner. And most of all, I'm grateful for the unwavering love and support of loved ones, near and far, old and new, who have become or remained part of my life this year.”​ - Sienna Brancato, Program Manager for PD & New Programs

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​“I am thankful for my team members who bring various perspectives to the discussion and thoughtfully navigate topics and challenges. I'm also very thankful for my family's health!” - Beta Eaton, Director of Student Support

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“I am thankful for the communities I am a part of. My bonds with classmates, colleagues, family and friends allow me to walk through life securely.”​
​- Elliot Svirnovskiy, Communications & Marketing Intern

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“I am thankful for the commitment of educators to each of their students, the connections I have with my colleagues, the guidance from mentors that encourage my growth, and the caring support from my family and friends.”​
​- Jasper McElrath, Communications & Marketing Manager

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