It's official! The first week of school has passed for the Middle School. It has been eventful, experimental, relieving and invigorating. It is always wonderful to have the students begin the school year with such promise and energy. The limitless potential, the innocence, the confidence--the students display it all. September always brings renewal, warmth and promise at Turning Point.

This week generally begins with discussions about the accomplishments and maturations of summer. We call them the "summer miracles". The students walk taller, broader, with added grace and elegance. Level Six marvels at the machinations of their lockers and their new freedoms and responsibilities, while Levels Seven and Eight display pride in their new place in the Turning Point hierarchy. Teachers become benchmarks for height and wisdom, and classrooms are filled with instruction, questions, and an ebullient human energy.

The teacher's voices echo in the halls and students are rapt with attention. Contrary to what most students may say, they all like to be back; their excitement and enthusiasm are palpable. This excitement forms bonds and the sense of community that the students create. These bonds form the bedrock and foundation for their experience. And what an experience!

The teachers overflow with ideas and enthusiasm, and their humor and good graces are an inspiration. We had the pleasure of creative planning meetings, and I, as always, was impressed by the intelligence and diligence that they displayed in their craft. Work filtered through able hands becomes inspiring and engaging.
So, as the scuffs appear on new shoes, and the doodles adorn the binders, know that these are the hallmarks of learning. After all the new outfits have been worn and the work begins in earnest, realize that the comfort level settles, everything is as it should be, and off we go on yet another fantastic journey.