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"Throw a stone into the stream, and the ripples that propagate themselves are the beautiful type of all influence."
― Ralph Waldo Emerson
As I walked on campus this week, I couldn't help but notice the cacophony of birds in the early morning. This beautiful chorus is just one of the many gifts that our campus has to offer. How many schools have their own amazing soundtrack? The landscape of FH's beautiful 54-acre campus is one that we never take for granted. Our teachers are committed to sharing the wonders of our campus with our students. We see the true impact nature and fresh air have on our teaching and learning as well as our morale. Our expansive campus is truly unique and lends itself to our focus on student-centered experiential learning!
Now that the weather has turned the corner, we look forward to taking advantage of all our campus has to offer. Over the next several weeks, we will celebrate our campus with a campaign we're calling "54 to Explore,"—highlighting the experiences that reach beyond the four walls of our building. Every spring-with the exception of last year, of course, it's common for teachers to hold classes outside on brilliant sunny days. P.E. classes and athletic practices are buzzing with energy. Some cohorts are practicing mindfulness in the shade while others are having a snack listening to a story. I am thrilled to see the students engage and explore outside again!
Kindergarten students showing off the Earth Day banner they made
This Thursday, April 22, we'll celebrate Earth Day on campus, and I am excited about the plans we have made to make it extra special this year. Students will learn about carbon footprints, and individual responsibility. They may even come home with a special gift and will certainly come home with some great stories of what they did on campus. In early May, just around the corner, Upper School students will head out to the ropes course, and Lower School students will delve into science lessons at the pond. It is truly a magical time at Far Hills.
Georgia Zaiser with the O'Donnell Family and a surprise Falcon appearance at the Annual Stream Clean-up yesterday
In correlation with our "54 to Explore" spring celebration, Far Hills faculty, students, and their families were invited to participate in yesterday's Annual Stream Clean-up hosted by Raritan Headwaters Association (RHA), an organization we have partnered with for many years. I was pleased to see FH support this worthy project (see more information and photos below). I look forward to welcoming RHA on campus in a few weeks to lead a few Lower School science classes.
Mrs. Cirroti participating in the Stream Clean-up
Mr. Yu and grade 4 student Ava Z. participating in the Stream Clean-up
Beyond Earth Day and National Volunteer Month, our graduates are responsible citizens with a sense of duty to family, school, and community always. They are fulfilled by serving others and seek out opportunities to do so. As Ralph Waldo Emerson stated, "Throw a stone into the stream, and the ripples that propagate themselves are the beautiful type of all influence." Our students see the impact their actions have on the Earth and our surroundings. As volunteers, we will make a difference, whether it's acting as good stewards of our NJ waterways or mindfully reducing our carbon footprint at school and at home.
Service Learning Club Kicking off National Volunteer Month. God's Co-op Pantry picked up the donation items from our All-School drive.
Our students are a catalyst for others, creating a ripple effect that will influence others to do good in the world.
Happy Spring,
Georgia S. Zaiser