Dear Parents,

As we close out this year and prepare for the holiday break ahead, I am reminded about the resiliency of our community. This year has been like none other, and we have all faced challenges of many kinds. Some we have faced together; others we have faced on our own. The pandemic has certainly affected us all.

However, today I am reminded about the bulletin board in our hallway. Grateful. A picture made as a community that captures our hands together; holding each other, remembering each other, and pausing for each other. This year has been one where we have stood together, linked arms and hands, and paused deeply for one another.

I am grateful for you as parents, who took up the very challenging task of schooling your children at home in the spring. You supported their learning, kept your family safe, and looked out for one another. You took the risk to send your children back to school, and we are grateful for the trust you have in us to keep your children close and safe.

I am grateful for the amazing team of teachers and support staff in our school. Regardless of their own challenges, they have provided wonderful learning opportunities, created a loving and caring environment at school, and have joined together to ensure no one is left behind. I am grateful for our custodians and maintenance staff who have had our safety as their primary concern and keep our school so clean.

Above all, I am so grateful for the children. Each day they bring a smile, enthusiasm, creativity, and inquisitiveness. Nothing seems to stop them! They bring joy. They are joy.

So today, as we all break, take a step back. Breathe. Pause, reflect, and hold one another. Be close with your family. And above else, may you continue to experience the joy of your children.

It is a privilege to be a part of your lives. Thank you from the deepest part of my heart for allowing me to sharing in their learning journey.

On behalf of the staff at Salmo Elementary, I wish you many warm regards for this holiday season.

Dawn Snell,

Principal