A special tradition we have every beginning of the school year is a handprint ceremony where each new person who joins our community places a handprint on our tree mural. Our ROA tree adorned with handprints (and one baby footprint) of all the families who continue to be with us symbolizes our interconnectedness and togetherness showcasing each of our unique qualities that bring beauty to our tree. It is also a symbol of strength and growth as it stands tall and strong sharing a deep root system deep into the ground, able to weather the toughest of storms.
And just as with every tree, leaves fall and leave, just like in our community with families who have come and gone. Falling leaves show us how to embrace change in all its glorious splendor with beautiful reminders of what was. It reminds us to accept and flow with the change. Just like the falling leaves, we have to let go in order to move forward, grow and heal.
We have so much to look forward to, this coming school year. A brand new chapter, a new journey. Adventure is out there!