Dear Flint Hill School Families,

This time of the year always serves as a reality check for me, and it’s not just because school is getting ready to start again. I love the start of school; it is one of my favorite times of the year. I love the fresh start, the new beginnings and the clean slate that we all have as a new school year gets underway.

However, what strikes me is a reminder of the fact that we are in the people business. And while it is an exciting and rewarding business, it can be difficult to watch people come and go as you form deep connections with students, families, faculty and staff. For example, many of last year’s Seniors returned to campus over the summer to say goodbye before leaving for their chosen colleges and universities. This was a special place that was safe and secure for them. They want to see the campus or say goodbye to their former teachers one last time before they leave. The members of the Class of 2016 showed tremendous leadership during their successful Senior year, and we are going to miss them dearly.

This week, new faculty and staff are joining us on campus for orientation. It is exciting to welcome a new class of talented educators and professionals to our great school, but it’s always difficult to say goodbye to the faculty and staff who depart. Whether they are heading off to new adventures or retiring, we know we won’t see those familiar faces in the halls when the school year begins. And as we prepare to welcome new and returning students and their families, it is impossible to forget the families who won’t be with us this year.

In this people business of education, we are in a constant state of transition. Your children are growing up each and every day. They are learning new things – intentionally and sometimes unintentionally – but each day represents a step forward on the journey of life. At the end of the school year, they will change dramatically from where they are today. And as they change, we are changing and growing alongside of them. Whether in our parenting skills or in our personal lives, dealing with family issues, or responsibilities at work and home, we are in a constant state of transition as well.

It is an amazing process, and while we may struggle sometimes with change, it is a part of everyday life. There will be lots of great moments ahead! So as we consider the reality that summer is just about to end, please join us in accepting the excitement that comes from everyone getting back together.

If we can help in any way during this time of the year, please don’t hesitate to ask us. That is part of the beauty of Flint Hill – we are here as a school family to partner with you and to make certain that each and every day is a day of learning. We want to make sure that each experience is productive, and while there may be struggles along the way, we can work together to make them into positive learning moments.

Get ready! I can tell you that our new faculty and staff members are an amazing group of educators. You will enjoy getting to know them. And for all of us, let’s work together to make certain that our new families feel very much a part of our school in a very quick period of time. We can be tremendously proud of what we have here, and we want to keep it moving forward into this exciting new school year.
Best wishes to you!

Sincerely,

John M. Thomas
Headmaster