Do Principals Cry?

Today is the third day of school and I have been overwhelmed with emotions. I completed my morning rounds and suddenly the tears of emotions began bubbling up. The classes are running beautifully, I saw so many children excited about learning. There were numerous instances of children helping other children. The teachers seemed to be orchestrating some cosmic educational symphony that was perfectly in tune. Even the lunch routine is running smoothly (there is nothing so lovely as seeing children eager to help clean up--must be some kind of miracle). I know that some days will be like this and others will be quite different, but for at least this moment in time, it feels like this must be the happiest place on earth.

The Walden Way

I have watched the growth and development of the Walden Charter School since it was just an idea in the mind of its founder, Diana West. I know I am not alone when I say that I absolutely love this school. The past few years I have often heard a phrase repeated, "oh, that's the Walden Way." This phrase is usually accompanied by a nod or twinkle in the eye that seems to indicate that both the speaker and the listener know exactly what that means.

Since I decided to call this blog "The Walden Way" I have been intrigued with what the Walden way means to different people. I believe it means that this is a place where diversity in welcomed and embraced, where the routine is a bit more laid back and casual than in many schools, and where we are constantly striving to have a family-type atmosphere. I would love to hear other ideas and experiences that embody "The Walden Way."

With warm Walden regards,
Lois

Getting Ready for School

I am always amazed at how much energy and effort teachers put into their classrooms before school. The annual getting-ready-for-the-first-day-of-class is almost a sacred ritual. I managed to capture a few shots of the activity as this ritual was carried out.