What Students are Grateful For

The most common comment in the halls this week has been how hard it is to believe that Thanksgiving is already here. The fall has been filled with deep learning in classrooms, wonderful individual and collective growth, and incredible performances by students. 

 

As many of you know, my office is often a stop for a quick sugar boost. Alongside the treats, students typically answer a daily survey on the whiteboard. In preparation for next week’s Thanksgiving Assembly, where student speakers will reflect on gratitude, I asked students to share what they are grateful for. Throughout the day, the whiteboard was filled with heartwarming messages. Many focused on the people in their lives: family, friends, advisors, a parent who drove out of their way to deliver something forgotten, college counselors, and teachers. Others expressed love for their cats and dogs. And a handful were simply delighted to have the chance to do test corrections or revise a paper. 

 

Whether meaningful or lighthearted, every reflection was a reminder of the small moments that help our students feel seen and supported. As we head into the upcoming break, I am grateful for the joy our learning community brings to one another each day, for our dedicated faculty, and for the hard work our students put into their learning as they continually strive to grow.