Twenty Things We Learned in 2020
The year 2020 has come and gone. A study in contrasts, it was the best of times and the worst of times. And while remnants remain in its wake, 2020 is behind us, a new year is unfolding, and the collective we are standing on the precipice of possibility and promise. In reflection, we sought silver linings and discovered them; we craved normalcy and found a new normal. Together we shared a remarkably teachable year and discovered truths best learned through experience.
- We learned that while we don’t have all the answers, the solution often lies within us.
- We discovered teachers are not only courageous and committed … they are essential.
- We found that absence really does make the heart grow fonder.
- We discovered that four walls are only placeholders and that the great outdoors is often the best classroom.
- We discovered that for every obstacle there is a brilliant workaround.
- We learned that the future is always better when served with a healthy dose of optimism.
- We learned that Zoom is a four-letter word.
- We learned that ruling the roost means following the rules.
- We found safety in numbers … 6 feet, to be exact.
- We discovered that music is balm for the soul and that no mask can stifle songs from the heart.
- When the show must go on, we found that starlight provides the best stage lights.
- We discovered the meaning of smiling eyes.
- We learned that what unites us is always greater than what divides us.
- We created twists on old favorites that quickly became new favorites.
- We learned that a grid of faces on a computer screen is no substitute for the synergy and magic that occurs face-to-face.
- We discovered that home is where your heart is, but home is no substitute for the heartbeat of a school.
- We found that losing your Guardian Angel is never easy, but you sometimes find your True North in the process.
- We rediscovered the value of cheering each other on and that state championship wins never grow old.
- We learned that challenges don’t create character, they reveal character.
- Most importantly, we came to the realization that we need one another … and that given the choice, we will always choose together over apart.
The seconds and minutes that comprised our days as a school community were arguably our finest hour. We met the challenge with dignity and grace, a little wiser and all the better for the experience.
Welcome, 2021.
