Dear Members of the Lindenhurst Community,
Spring is a time often associated with growth and beauty. While we must contend with the dreariness of the occasional spring storm, we know that if we are patient, something beautiful will come from it.
At the district level, we place great emphasis on social and emotional learning, being an up-stander and not a bystander, and the fact that every student has the right to learn in a comfortable and supportive environment. But we are only one piece of the puzzle. If we are to truly reinforce these values and strengthen the character of our community, it is imperative that we continue to work together and be the example of the actions we expect of others. Together we have the power to grow something beautiful. Individually, we have the power help others in the community weather their storms.
As we head into the spring break session, I encourage families to have reflective conversations about how the year has gone so far. Has it been a time for growth and beauty? Or have certain choices and actions resulted in stormy weather for them or others around them?
In this digital age it has become easier for people to forget that all of the choices and actions we make create a domino effect and touch the lives of so many others. Something as simple as a repeated rumor, a “liked” comment on social media, or someone laughing at a joke made at someone else’s expense could have truly negative impacts on a person’s life. From behind a screen, one can feel distanced from the emotional impacts of such decisions, which is why it is so important that we continue to treat others the way we wish to be treated – with kindness, thoughtfulness and respect.
As you share this time off with your community of friends and family, I want to remind you that, together, we make up a wonderful community. One that takes great pride in the way in which we demonstrate support. As a community of learners, staff and parents/guardians, we proudly support our teams, our students and our neighbors in crisis. We do this every day in so many little ways, like when we decide to talk to the person who is sitting alone, or when we choose to not share the gossip or believe in rumors that someone else has shared. While these seem like insignificant actions, I assure you that they have huge implications on the lives of people they impact – the lives of people in our community. People just like you and me.
I hope you enjoy the time off and soak in all of the beauty of this season as you reflect on these words. Thank you, as always, for your continued partnership in education.
Sincerely,
Daniel E. Giordano Superintendent of Schools