To the editor:
On Tuesday, Aug. 28, at 7:15 a.m., my life was forever changed. My 4-year-old, whom I’ve been lucky enough to stay home with, ventured off into the big wonderful world, alone. He stood on the steps of that big, yellow, school bus, posed long enough for a picture, smiled with excitement and that was it. That bus was gone as quick as it had come. I stood as it came to the end of the driveway with tears streaming down my face, I knew I missed him that instant. My uneasiness was short lived when I arrived at Mapleton Elementary and saw him playing amongst his classmates on the playground. Quietly I stood and observed. He didn’t even know I was there. But when he turned around and caught sight of his father, his baby brother and I, I could not imagine being anywhere else! As the bell rang, the children were gathered into groups, led to the front of the building where they formed lines to parade proudly around the school building … music to boot! (Thanks Mrs. Soucy.) Then, as they approached the front doors, there was a ribbon-cutting ceremony, which our very own town manager attended! (Thank you Mr. Edgecomb.)
Then, we followed them to the classrooms where we said a quick (too quick for me) goodbye. I knew no goodbye kiss would be accepted by the look of my son, waiting for me to go. I need him more than he needs me, I’ve said many times. Today that was too true.
We were then welcomed to the cafeteria where there were refreshments and more friendly faces … and a volunteer sign-up sheet, which I happily signed. After what a wonderful experience Mapleton Elementary gave my son and his family on his first day, I will gladly do my part to support them in any way I can.
Thank you so much for making the first day of school such a wonderful new experience for our family. What a wonderful celebration of family, school and community! Thank you to every hard-working teacher with unending dedication, bus drivers and helpful office workers and thank you Mrs. Gibson. First day of School America Parade was definitely a success in our book. Hoping for many more “first” days!
Emily Carter
Chapman
