To our students and educators, 

Welcome back to school: students, educators, administrators and families! I hope you enjoyed a fun summer vacation and are refreshed for the year to come.  

While summer is ending, a new opportunity to love learning and grow has begun. This year, you will surely grow — in knowledge, perspective and skill. Someone once said to me, “You [students] may feel butterflies in your stomach and uneasiness, and that’s okay because new situations can do that.” May we all ask questions, get comfortable with our curious selves and be open to new ideas, perspectives and opportunities for growth.  

Educators, school staff and administrators, we thank you for your passion, energy, persistence and fortitude as you lead, teach, role model and protect our children when they are not in our care. We are proud to support you in your efforts to create engaging and dynamic learning for and with our students. Four years of college doesn’t make a teacher. Teachers are born with the passion and fire in their belly to impart knowledge and inspire. As you guide and provide safe spaces for our learners to evolve, remember to make room for your own personal and professional growth. Know that we, families and the community are here to support you. We are a team.   

Students, this is the time to dedicate yourself to learning. Explore every opportunity you can and remember that you have the power to create opportunities yourself. Is there a program you want to add to your school? Ask your peers, teachers and community members about the necessary steps you can take to affect change and progress. Each day or week, make a goal to learn a little bit more, ask a couple more questions and stop by the buddy bench; there may be a new playmate waiting. Above all, be curious, try new things and find joy along your learning journey. In the end, I am confident you will discover that you have evolved.  

Community, businesses, government leaders and stakeholders across our region – was there a teacher that inspired you? Be sure to support and give thanks to our region’s educators and teachers – their tireless efforts are building and ensuring our talented future.   

Eden Hall Foundation is proud to support students, educators, administrators and families each and every day throughout the entire school year. I cannot wait to hear about the challenges, triumphs and lessons you encounter along the way.  

Congratulations on taking the first steps to making this year memorable.  

Best regards,  

Sylvia Fields, President 

Eden Hall Foundation