It goes without saying that this has been a historic year in many ways, and at Birch Grove Community School we have adapted with spirit. To celebrate the end of an unusual school year, the staff at Birch Grove wanted to end the year with something that had never been done before– bringing a year-end celebration to the students at their homes.
Birch Grove Community School staff visited each K-5 student on May 26 and 27, traversing both Lake and Cook County. Horns honked, music played, graduation caps were donned, balloons and bubbles were given, and smiles appeared. Many family members joined in with our celebrations.
“It was great seeing everyone during our home visit celebrations. The happy, smiley faces were nice to see in person after months of online student meetings!“ said Sara Knottski, in her fifth year as the K/1 teacher.
“It was so much fun seeing students again and being able to celebrate the joy of learning with our Birch Grove Community. I am so proud of everything our students have accomplished this school year, from mastering new math skills to increasing reading comprehension, to discovering new ways to keep learning from a distance. Our students are resilient, strong, and determined young individuals and I am so proud of them,” commented Heidi Milner, the 4/5th grade teacher.
Pictures from the home visits were incorporated into a video that was created by school paraprofessional
Cathy Penning, a retired elementary music teacher, and her husband Mark Penning, who is also a paraprofessional at the school. The year-end video was sent home to families and is posted on the school Facebook page. Families and the community enjoyed watching this delightful video.
“Birch Grove is so proud of its students, families, staff, and community for rising to the many challenges that we all faced this year. It was done with creativity, flexibility, tenacity and patience, as well as positive attitudes! Everyone involved should be very proud. This all goes to show that we can do anything if we work together. Many thanks to all, and take some time to enjoy yourself this summer– you deserve it!” Diane Blanchette, Birch Grove Community School Director.
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