"Teachers here work really hard, and they love what they do. I have said many times that this is the brightest and most talented faculty I have ever seen on one campus. They are always growing and learning, and never satisfied with the status quo. I am inspired by them every day." “
Recently I reread sections of Oprah Winfrey’s book, What I Know for Sure. Oprah covers lots of foundational topics like joy, resilience, connection, gratitude and possibilities. She tells stories and reflects on what she knows to be true in her life. There are things I know to be true in my life that I would like to share with you in my last newsletter message as Interim Head of School.
This is what I know for sure (some tongue in cheek) after living in Tucson this year:
- Tucson is hot! When people tell you to drink water, they aren’t kidding. I loved the monsoon season. That burst of cool air and sweet scent of the creosote were unexpected surprises. I will miss sunny days, low humidity and the beautiful blooming cacti.
- This is a “dark city.” Night driving on River Road is not for the faint of heart! And a street called “Roller Coaster Road” has the appropriate name!
- Wildlife is everywhere and the photo app on my phone is dominated by animals not in my home state (Louisiana) habitat. I’ve exchanged alligators, nutria, armadillo and mosquitos for: Javelinas (“squadron” -perfect name) who are Interesting to observe from a distance, but they mean business! Scorpions, tarantulas and rattlesnakes are to be respected, and roadrunners are fun to watch. We haven’t seen bobcats and mountain lions yet, but there’s still time. In Tucson there are coyotes (“kai-oat-ee”–as in Wile E. Coyote), in South Dakota (our next destination), they call them “Kai oats.” I will have to adjust my pronunciation, though I prefer the Kai-oat-ee variety!
- There is a lot to do here. The museums, restaurants and antique shops are my favorites. We are running out of time to do everything on our list. “Standing on the Corner in Winslow Arizona,” is our next trip.
And this is what I know for sure at the end of my year at The Gregory School:
- People here put students first. At faculty meetings, committee meetings, and any time decisions are made at TGS, faculty and staff say, “what is best for students?” That doesn’t happen everywhere. They lean into supporting students rather than choosing what is easiest, or most comfortable for themselves.
- Students care about one another and speak up for their peers. It is not okay to be a bystander. This is a place where empathy is practiced.
- The Gregory School makes it possible for students to take advantage of the rich opportunities here in athletics, STEM and the arts. It requires a lot of coordination but students can sing in the choir, perform in the band or orchestra, dance, compete in robotics and be part of a team sport. We recognize that limiting students to one thing doesn’t give them the breadth of experiences that will help them live richer and fulfilling lives.
- Teachers here work really hard, and they love what they do. I have said many times that this is the brightest and most talented faculty I have ever seen on one campus. They are always growing and learning, and never satisfied with the status quo. I am inspired by them every day.
- Friday Explorations, The Entrepreneurial Institute, the FabLab, the Writing Center, Senior Internships, the Farmyard, clubs, arts and athletic opportunities on a large campus that serves as an extension of the classroom is not common. In Louisiana we call this “lagniappe.” That means “something extra.” The Gregory School “lagniappe” gives students here an experience that is different. Not just in Tucson, but in other parts of the country. What happens here is rare and beautiful. This is a special place.
- James Foreman is going to be an inspirational leader for The Gregory School. With the support of a passionate Board of Trustees, a very skillful administrative staff and faculty, and this caring community of families, TGS is positioned for success. Good things are happening here, and the future is bright!
The excellent academic reputation, the things “on paper” that people know about The Gregory School are easily quantified when you see the college acceptances to universities throughout the country, and abroad, the awards our students receive in scholarships, music, and arts competitions, and the impressive professional and community accomplishments of our alumni. What people also know about TGS is that kindness matters here. Our mission speaks to the preparation of students who will make a positive impact in the world. Kindness comes in words and actions.
In this final newsletter edition, I am proud to share a message of kindness from eighth grade student, Zeke Bialis. Student voices of gratitude speak to the heart of TGS.
Thank you for the kindness you have extended to me and the opportunity to have spent a year in this special place. You have left your print on me!
Wishing you all a safe and joyous summer,
Amy
