Gratitude is central to the culture at UVEI, and last year we started a tradition of sharing gratitude with our community at this time of year. In looking back, we remain grateful for all of these things, and here are 5 more things we are grateful for:
Spaces for dialogue
Dialogue includes talking through differences, building on each other’s ideas, and contributing to each other’s growth. We are grateful for the spaces and moments where we have witnessed and participated in discussions like this: partner schools, convenings, seminars, and more. These spaces remind us that relationships are key and that we grow best together. We appreciate every opportunity for restorative conversations that contribute to stronger communities and relationships, and are grateful that we get to be a part of so many!
Educators centering joy
There are many ways to think about joy in school communities. Every day we see examples of kids’ and educators’ ideas and experiences being celebrated, people learning about the complexities and genius of their own and others’ histories, students engaging in learning that is authentic, and students’ curiosities being centered. Just as important, we see examples of warmth, laughter, and fun. Every time we see these bright spots of joy, we feel grateful that we get to be a part of this work.
Messy work of change/improvement
The more time we spend in schools, the more we recognize that the forever work of continuous improvement is asymmetrical and often frustrating. Growth and development is a complicated business, as are schools as communities and organizations. Despite the obstacles, we get to work with committed educators who keep pressing with care, compassion, and persistence.
Colleagues
Many educators report feeling isolated and alone. Together with caring and passionate colleagues, we find shared strength and solidarity giving us the courage and support to keep working for thriving kids and educators in strengthened schools and communities.
Getting kids outside
Outdoor, place-based education can be a powerful form of deeper learning, can change things up for kids who struggle to be confined in the classroom all day, and can deepen kids’ connection to the natural world. We are grateful to schools and educators who have expanded the “classroom” into the outdoors in various ways. In these places and programs, we have seen students developing a sense of place and community, observing/experiencing geography and ecology, and advocating for our planet and its future.
For all of these things, we say thank you to our community of educators and network of supporters!
