Dear Fireside Families,
I hope you all had an eventful summer filled with adventure, rest, and most of all, quality time as a family. While my summer seemed short, we were fortunate to venture to Panama for two weeks and spent a week in Seattle visiting friends and family.
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| My family and Sierra's Panamanian family |
My sixteen year old daughter, Sierra, spent 6 weeks living with a host family in a remote region in the interior of Panama. Her cup was "full" so to speak, upon her return as she had stories to tell and a de-cluttered brain from six tech-free weeks. She's proven to my husband and I that she can manage independently when that day comes in the not so distant future and she's heading off to college. I'll be the one needing consoling.
From our travels, I often pay attention to themes that surface and influence my work as an educator. One came from dear sweet, Maria, the host of a place we stayed at in Tavidal, Panama. "All we need is love" is what was written on the cup she kept close to her as she selflessly served all the guests at Villa Tavida. I was reminded that this is the core of who and what we are at Fireside. Truly, Fireside is love. Our ongoing mission is for this to be felt for every student, parent, or guest who walks through our front doors. With love, all is possible. It is the core building block of a family and is what nurtures a safe haven for kids to excel on their learning pathway.
The other theme surfaced when visiting the Bill and Melinda Gates Visitor Center in Seattle, Washington (well worth the visit). It came from a quote by Bill Gates Sr., "Today, community isn't just your city, it is the world." Developing global partnerships among our students, as well as meaningful, personalized learning opportunities. is something we'll continue to explore in the year ahead.
Once more I'll kick off the year by reading to every classroom. This year's message comes from the book, We're All Wonders.
New Fireside Staff:
We have hired dynamic, highly qualified new staff at Fireside- wow are they ever ready to greet students! Please join me in welcoming these exceptional individuals by reading their bios: New Fireside Staff
Important Dates and Back to School Info:
- School supply lists are posted on the website
- Class lists will be made available for families on August 11th by accessing the portal account on Infinite Campus.
- Aug. 15: All school PTO Ice Cream Social, 2:30-3:30pm (meet your teacher, other students and drop off school supplies).
- Check homepage on school website for other important dates and information
Helpful reminders for Drop Off/Pick-up/Parking Lot:
The circle bus lane is for buses only. This is not a parking area or “drive through” area.
Please use the “Hug and Go” lane on Dahlia for drop off/pick up as well as the parking lot “Hug and Go” lane. Cars should not be parked or left unattended on Dahlia Street.
If you choose to walk your child to their classroom, please park your car in the parking lot.
Use the two crosswalks in front of the school. We want to set a good, safe example for our children.
Thanks for supporting Fireside in being a safe community for all. I look forward to welcoming our new and returning families. It is an honor to serve this special community.
Yours in education,
Christa Keppler
Reading to classrooms this week, I've been so impressed by our thoughtful discussions about finding common ground and celebrating our "unique" and wonderous selves. There's no doubt we are nurturing respectful, responsible, and open-minded young minds here at Fireside-thanks for your invaluable role with this as parents. 
