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September 26,
2008
Dear Parents,
What a great week this has been! (And not just because students are back
in dress code.) There is a lightness to everyone’s step after last week’s
busy schedule. I feel very good about where this year is going. It is
difficult not to have affection for these students, even when they are a
bit ornery. Especially when they are bit ornery.
On that topic, senior Jeff Miller was recognized on Wednesday night at the
Lied Center as part of the Kansas Honors Scholars program. This program
honors the top 10% of each graduating high school class in the state of
Kansas. As I noted at the ceremony, being first among such a remarkable
group of seniors is a considerable achievement.
Another Spirit Van is headed out Friday night at 5 pm from school to see
our Varsity Football team play at Flint Hills. The game is at 7 pm, and
students will be catching a late dinner afterwards. This will make for a
late night! Students should call you from the road (or you can call them)
to arrange pick-up times. The last van trip was a huge hit and I am
certain the students will have a fantastic time!
I want to thank all parents for their willingness to volunteer in our
school endeavors and to help us keep Seabury running smoothly. The
facilitators for each BSAP committee met this week to coordinate efforts
and create a ground plan for the year. Towards this end, Kelsy Schimmel
has volunteered her efforts as the lead facilitator, and I appreciate her
willingness to help organize and to keep track of our various efforts.
This is my last reminder about the First Annual Texas Hold Em’ Tournament
on Saturday night. I hope that everyone who comes has a great time! The
tournament begins at 7 pm and all players must be seated by 7:30pm. You
may still rsvp at poker@seaburyacademy.org or simply show up at the door.
Finally, I want to applaud both parents and teachers for your tremendous
care in helping to develop the young citizens in our midst. I continue to
use the word “Duty” to set a theme to this year. When I see our students
in the halls, no matter the grade, I feel that we have a great
responsibility. For teachers, part of this responsibility is to see
through the mundane puzzle of tests, grades, games, and performances to
see the larger picture and to make vital our interactions with students. I
think all of us struggle to find authentic moments of connection, hoping
to find the right sentiment or compelling perspective that will trigger
some epiphany in a student (now or later). These moments occur for us at
odd times and often outside of formal classes—serving lunch at the
Salvation Army, offering a congratulatory hug after a game, playing music
together, or stumbling unexpectedly into a pithy conversation after lunch
or after school. I believe that these interactions that students enjoy
with parents and teachers will change their lives and make them stronger,
more grounded people in the future. We are fortunate to have this work.
Have a great weekend!
Yours respectfully,
Dr. Schawang |