A Year of Reflection

Written by Mary Stephenson 6-5-2017

On June 2nd many of us showed up at Sycamore School for the last day of school BBQ. Except there was no cooking to be done.

To be truthful, we didn’t mind.

So I think I have eaten more hot dogs in the past year than in probably the past five. After the kids are all served we get to eat.

They appreciate our help at the school but I sometimes wonder if we are more in the way of a system that works just fine.

The positive adults presence for the kids apparently is really important and if that is what we bring, then I am glad to be there.

If you have been to Sycamore often, you will begin to notice the great job that is being done. Children are polite and very appreciative of everything they receive. I have never once heard any of the children say “I don’t like that”. If they don’t want something they either say “no thank you” or at least politely shake their head. Never any expressions of disgust, which is actually pretty awesome for kids to behave that way.

A real joy to be around the children that go to school there.

We have had some great functions at the school this past year. But very glad we are not putting in a full summer of painting, etc. as we did last year.

Looking forward to other things for the new school year with Sycamore. Ideas have been talked about and hoping to implement some.

Children having positive experiences through the school can benefit greatly. We all win in the end.

The PALZ room is in the spotlight with the school system. Hopefully they will see this as a model for other schools in the future.

It is not just the room, it is also the program of “Skills of Independence” that creates the difference.

To read more on Sycamore click here.