The 2013-2014 school year is about to begin. It is hard to believe, but we are back into the school routine in a big way here at school. I love looking out the window of my office and watching Upper School students who are going to play fall sports returning for pre-season practices. They are hard at work with the most amazing coaches preparing to represent Flint Hill in the upcoming athletic season. It is great to reconnect with them and hear about their summer experiences and their expectations for the coming year.

In the meantime, all faculty, staff, and coaches have been back for a week full of pre-planning meetings and activities. We had a tremendous day on Monday, working in a design-thinking mode, considering ways to continually improve our teaching, our school, and the relationships we build here. We are always looking  enhance each day for our students.As our new and returning faculty and staff members begin to work together, I think about what it takes to be part of our community. There is a strong level of knowledge and scholarship, but who each member is as person is even more critical.

Do we each have an appreciation for our inclusive culture, our responsiveness to others, our ability to collaborate, to be open, trustful and trustworthy, and the desire and passion to build relationships with students, parents and with colleagues?

Yes! Be assured as parents that the Flint Hill community of faculty and staff carries those traits.

We built that concept into our mission years ago and use the term driving spirit. I often hear people visiting the school say, “This school has a different feel about it.” The poise of the students and the graciousness of the faculty and staff have a profound impact on our culture, our learning environment, and instruction.

Please continue to read the weekly newsletter, now published each Wednesday, and the other communications from your student’s teachers and the school as a whole. We want you to be fully informed as we start the year.

I look forward to seeing your children next week and to see you at the various activities coming up.