Beginning Kindergarten

Last week Isaac, and our entire family, had our first day at Isaac's new school. This school does not use the traditional nomenclature of kindergarten, first grade, etc., but rather describes their age groups as just that, 'groups'. SO, Isaac began group one. His teachers names are Michelle and Kazia. Michelle has been a teacher in group one for many many years and is absolutely phenomenal. Simply watching her with the kids inspires me.
The first week of school is intended as a transitional time for both the student and the parents. The school gently begins to make the student feel comfortable by allowing them small snippets of time in the classroom, and then time with mom and dad. The first day of this transition Isaac spent some time in his new class, and David and I spent time getting to know a bit about the other parents. We were blown away by how interesting each of them were, how open the were to approaching each other with genuine interest in getting to know each other. Most people had interesting creative professions, and we truly felt that everyone shared very similar values and had chosen this school and its progressive philosophy for a reason. It felt like we were part of something beautiful, a community within a very large city.  Isaac seemed to enjoy his first day too. He recognized some of the children's faces who we had spent time with over the summer. We all left feeling warm, happy, and exhausted.
Day two was similar to day one except that the parents learned about many of the rules and operations of the school. We met with all of the teachers who lead the specialty curriculum, and learned about drop off and pick up. Two hours later Isaac and I left ready for a nap.
The third day was more socializing for adults and school for the littles. We were introduced to the school physiologist who spent time discussing 'separation' and what that may mean for a kindergarten aged child. It was very useful, and the questions that the parents were asking were incredibly open and wonderful. After this discussion we headed out for a big picnic with all of group one and their parents. Isaac and I had baked cookies to share with the class. He walked around with such a proud look on his face as he passed each one out, and as expected each parent adored the cookies, valued them, and spent a lot of time thanking Isaac for his efforts.
Over the weekend David and I attended a parent mixer hosted by group two for group one. We got to know the parents even better. Spent time learning about who they were, and talking about who we are. When we left I told David that for the first time ever I felt like we were part of a group of people who were all genuinely comfortable with just being themselves. That ease was so apparent, and made us feel like we just just be. The power in that is huge and a reminder of how important it is to be authentic and true with those around you.
We are thrilled with our choice, and so happy that Isaac is going to have such a positive experience at this magical school. I am looking forward to all the participation this year, and opportunities to simply be around the campus and its parents. Walking through the gates of this school you just feel it, something meaningful, something powerful, something much bigger than any of its individuals. Its a place we are proud to call our elementary school.