From the Director’s Chair September 2008
Posted by lsnl in : From the Director's Chair, September 2008 , trackbackWell, I think extra recess would take away some of our sadness…
As I wandered down the first floor corridor yesterday, intending to observe several different classes in action, I suddenly happened upon that elusive and unforgettable experience: the teachable moment. Children were seated in a circle, legs criss-cross, while teacher Judi Morrow elicited ideas from the group.
Let’s write cards to make her feel better.
Umm…I think we need to have a funeral.
Hermy III, the class hermit crab, had succumbed after a short but fatal illness, and each child offered ideas for providing solace to their classmate, the girl (known in local parlance as Hermy III’s “mom”) who had contributed her pet to the school. This being second grade, the ideas continued….and became increasingly more creative.
Maybe we could share our thoughts about Hermy III out loud, and explain what she meant to each of us, and what we liked about her.
How about having an extra recess time?
Yes, I was a bit skeptical about that last one, too. But Judi, in a masterful and respectful way, checked with our recess advocate to discover the reasons behind his idea. In so doing, she helped him to know that each voice would be trusted—that she would listen for his “best self.”
Well, I think extra recess would take away some of our sadness…it’d make us feel better to do something fun.
As Judi shepherded the listening and sharing process along, she reminded them of the importance of noticing their feelings, finding a meaningful way to grieve, and then moving on. There was plenty of space for the full range of feelings: from those who were sobbing to those whose sense of loss was momentary. And the children’s kindness emerged clearly and resonantly as they reached for and discovered words to affirm each other. After a few moments of deliberation, the children decided that writing cards would be the best way to express themselves and console Hermy III’s mom.
This fall, as I come to know and observe the work of our faculty, I continually find that patient attention is being given to the spiritual and ethical growth of children even—or especially—when the circumstances take us by surprise.
I’m delighted and honored to be part of this caring community—and I thank you for making me feel so welcome.
Janet Chance
Director of Lower School
Note: Cards for Hermy III were crafted by members of the class and will serve as eulogies at the interment, which will be held off campus in a private ceremony.