As the school year begins ...

Palm Coast Observer
Opinion

[Sponsored content]

If you would have polled a group of mamas back in January and asked "What will be your biggest concern for August 2020?" I can guarantee no one could have guessed the answers they might give today. We probably would be more concerned with what items we still have to get on the supply list and getting the kids back on a routine that includes going to bed early. While these items may still be on people’s minds, there are other concerns looming.

As a former kindergarten teacher and daughter of a second grade teacher, I can imagine the stresses that each teacher is feeling right now. It is more important now than ever that we support our school employees and administrators.

Speaking from experience, this is one of the most challenging careers out there, without a global pandemic going on. If you're looking for ways to show support, just ask your child(ren)’s teacher! There most likely will be something you can help with, but just knowing they have your support might make the world of difference.
Kindness matters more than ever right now. Whether your friend or neighbor chose to send her kids back to school and is sitting on the front porch with a mimosa waving as the bus drives by or she chose to step back from her career to stay home and teach her children because she just couldn't send them back yet, we need to love on each other. The choice is a difficult one for most moms I have spoken to.

I know there are families who still worry about the unknown based on the decision they made. Show support by having candid conversations and encouraging each other. You never know who might need your smile.

Feel free to join me in this prayer:

Lord God, We give our children to you today and every day. Keep them and their classmates safe and protected. I ask that this school year, you would use every person, experience and lesson to shape their hearts and minds. Teach them the value of hard work and communication as they continue to learn and grow. Bless the teachers and administrators. Keep them safe and healthy. Continue to guide them to make the best decisions for our children. Remind them of their special place in the lives of their students and give them confidence in their abilities.

For all of the parents, I pray for peace. Let us be extraordinarily grateful for the privilege of parenting. Fill us with wisdom as we watch our babies grow. Grant us patience and kindness as they stretch their wings. Hold us close to you as we learn to let them go. Amen!

Best wishes for happy and healthy 2020-2021 school year!