I’m writing from Santa Cruz after returning from an exciting visit to The Orchard School. Although my visit spanned only three days, I saw examples of Orchard’s mission and philosophy in nearly every conversation, event, and classroom. Here are a few highlights from the trip:

On Saturday I had the pleasure of attending my first Orchard auction, “One Great School, One Great Night.” This extraordinary event organized by the Parents’ Association and Alumni Heritage Association confirmed what I already knew about Orchard:  the community attends to its past, present, and future through the tireless work of engaged families, dedicated alumni, and talented faculty and staff. The highlights of the evening were the awards presented to Jen and Jeff Cohen, Alan Henderson, Diana Shellhaas, Kristy Sherman, and Steve Thompson, alumni, faculty, and friends who have inspired generations of Orchard students to be confident scholars and good stewards of their community.

Chair of the Board of Trustees Colleen O’Brien and I met most of Sunday to discuss the strategic work that lies ahead for Orchard. Two themes ran through our discussion: diversity and community building. True to Orchard’s progressive roots and focus on experiential learning, I am eager to move forward and engage with members of the school and the larger Indianapolis community as we work towards a more equitable future.

Monday was especially meaningful as I was able to experience the heart of Orchard’s most important work: the teaching and learning that happens every day. I met with faculty and staff early in the morning, who were eager to tell me about their upcoming day with students (Tapping the maple trees! Preparing for a visiting author! Planning for Winterm!). I visited students in Kindergarten, 1st, and 6th grade classrooms, who were happily engaged in learning that drew upon their personal experiences as they practiced reading, writing, and research skills. I met with the administrative team to begin our conversations about program, budgeting, and facilities, and got to experience the pride and excitement the entire staff feels about Orchard’s mission, philosophy, and future. The sense of common purpose and joyful teaching and learning was evident all over campus, and I’m eager to return soon and learn more.

Happily, my return date is not far away. I’ll be back for the AHA Pancake Breakfast on March 4th, and my whole family will be joining me. Sean, Emmet, Owen, and I look forward to experiencing this beloved tradition with all of you, and seeing first-hand how Orchard’s commitment to outdoor education continues to inspire generations of joyful students.  I’m excited that my family and I will be a part of the event, and I look forward to sharing many more in the years ahead.

Sincerely,

Sherri