It was the first semi-warm and sunny day in a long time. Winter had been long and the first weeks of Covid-19 isolation had made it even more difficult to endure. The parade started as an idea – to spread hope to our families in Edgemont. For school staff it was a way to show our students that we are still here, still connected and still care.
Nearly 30 Edgemont School Staff assembled at school at 2:00 on April 9. There was a buzz of connection as we distanced ourselves from each other in the parking lot. Several staff members brought family members with them, for many it was the first real opportunity to leave their homes since classes were canceled. All had some sort of message attached to their vehicles expressing hope for when we would be together again and how much our students are missed! At 2:30 we set out on a parade route that snaked through 23 km in Edgemont. Teachers waved and called out to students through laughter and tears.
Staff members were so touched to see that students and families were lining the streets and waiting to say hello! Many had created their own signs letting us know that they missed us too! After the parade our hearts were full! Some parents let us know that parade day was the best day their children had had in the past three weeks! One parent wrote, “Thank you so much for this great initiative, it really made our week and gives us lots of energy to stay strong for the weeks to come. We are in this together!”
As a staff we all feel so fortunate to serve this community. We received so much more love and caring than we expected at the onset. We are proud of our school and proud of our students. Thank you Edgemont Community for coming out and being with us on this special day. We learned through this experience that the single most effective way to have an impact for others is to show up with your whole heart!
#EdgemontStrong #WeAreCBE!
Lori Holford
Principal, Edgemont School
