One of the most meaningful things I saw during our first week of school was the way connections were beginning to take shape in our classrooms.

Teachers were sitting alongside children, joining their play, listening to their stories, discovering their interests, and learning what makes each child unique. Children were beginning to find their people, build friendships, and discover that their teachers are adults they can trust. In these everyday moments, I saw the heart of Harbor.

The first week of school is about so much more than learning names and establishing routines. It is about getting to know our children.

Who are they? What makes them laugh? What are they curious about? What helps them feel confident? What brings them joy?

Our teachers approach this work with tremendous intention because we believe that before we can truly teach a child, we need to know the child. The relationships built in these first weeks create the foundation for everything that comes next.

I also loved seeing the many opportunities our teachers created for children to connect with one another. Through play, shared experiences, classroom conversations, and simple moments together, children are beginning to discover new friends and build a sense of community. These meaningful opportunities to connect are such an important part of the Harbor experience. We want every child to have people to laugh with, learn alongside, and turn to throughout the school day.

As we begin our second week, I am excited to see these early connections continue to grow. Friendships will deepen. Confidence will build. Teachers will continue discovering the strengths, interests, and individual qualities that make each child special. And, little by little, our children will come to know something that is central to the Harbor experience: I belong here.

When children feel known and connected, they are more willing to take risks, try something new, ask for help, and grow as learners.

That is the culture we are building together at Harbor.

Know the child. Build the relationship. Earn the trust. Create the belonging. The learning will follow.

 

Thank you for entrusting your children to us. It has been a joy to witness the beginning of these relationships, and I am looking forward to all that will grow from them throughout the year.

Warmly,

Colleen Brown
Head of School
The Harbor School