Monday message 12.17.2018

Dear Parents,

In his 1926 classic, “Winnie the Pooh,” A.A. Milne wrote, “Piglet noticed that even though he had a very small heart, it could hold a rather large amount of gratitude.” Our little pink friend was grateful for the abundance he had in his life: great friends, a warm place to sleep, and a few tasty “haycorns” to eat. As we approach the conclusion of 2018 and break for the winter holiday, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to all who help make Alaka’i O Kaua’i an amazing place to be. We are an Ohana with many gifts and talents, which we share daily with one another and, most importantly, our learners. From the classroom to our homes and community, our collective efforts to develop the whole child are filled with passion, commitment, and a willingness to make decisions that may be hard in the present, but will have a positive and lasting influence for all in the future. Parents, of course, are such a critical part of all we hope to accomplish on behalf of our Alaka’i learners. I am grateful to you for doing what I know firsthand is the hardest, most rewarding and joyous job of all. Thank you for entrusting us with your most precious gift.

I am also grateful to our wonderful, talented, creative, inquisitive, optimistic, resourceful and resilient keiki. Often, they make us laugh, sometimes they make us cry, but always they make us think. Most of all, they help us hone our skills as educators as we grow and learn alongside them. In the spirit of this holiday season, I want to extend my thanks to our entire Ohana; parents, learners, staff, and governing board for everything that you do for our school. As we enjoy the upcoming holidays, it is my fervent wish that each of you receives and returns the seasonal bounty of blessings and good tidings that make these days truly special. It is also during this time that I am reminded of my own good fortune to have been able to serve as the Interim Director for the past couple of months. It has been a true joy to be a part of Alaka’i O Kaua’i’s founding year! As of Dec. 17, Mr. Fred Birkett will be onsite as the new school director. I hope that you will stop in and welcome him personally. I will be back in January after break to provide support during the transition.

I believe the faces of our keiki best express the true meaning of this holiday season. They radiate a sense of unbridled enthusiasm, untainted hope, and unabashed joy for life and the opportunities that await them. To the parents and friends of the Alaka’i O Kaua’i, please have a safe and joyous holiday season!

Linda Krystek