Coolidge's Caring Community...

Middle schools are raw with emotion.  There are the emotions of the students, both high and low, as they go through such a transitional time in their lives.  There are the emotions of the staff, who are passionate about the students and to their dedication to teaching.  And there are connections that deepen these emotions: among students, between students and teachers, and among the staff as we unite to support the educational, emotional, and behavioral well being of our students.

It is at times easy to take these connections for granted, or to not stop and pause and to appreciate the power of connections.  And yet I had one of these moments on Friday when John McCarthy told his students that he would be taking a medical leave to start chemotherapy treatments for bladder cancer (starting immediately and lasting at least until January).  John was very emotional, as were the students who expressed concern, questions, and some tears at the news.  After school, students lined up to shake his hand, take photos with him, ask more questions, and to give hugs.  It was hard to maintain composure myself, as it was so touching to watch students share their thanks, their concern, and their well wishes to such a beloved teacher.  And then once the halls had cleared of students, staff were doing the same.

John is a private person, so I will be working with others to create opportunities for staff, students, and parents to support him in ways that respects his request for privacy.  He did offer for all students to email him at any time if they want to reach out.

All of the staff, students, and parents of our Coolidge Community wish John well over the next few months and success in his battle against cancer!

Lastly, this event provides a reminder for students, staff, and parents alike to reflect on our connections: to cherish those we have and to work on those that need nurturing!  I am personally grateful for all of the wonderful connections that make Coolidge so special, for staff and students alike.