A learning community

Another summer filled with adventure and fun experiences has come to an end. Now, once again it’s back to school. Students, parents and teachers welcoming a new school year. Time to learn and to seek out new understandings. A time for new adventures and experiences, not only for our kids but also for our community. A time for students to reunite with friends and make new ones. It’s time to get back into a routine of conquering projects and homework. While not every child needs to become a lawyer or physician, school enables kids to explore and try new things while providing creativity and the imagination to dream. Some students may find it difficult to get back into the rhythm of school. But despite any worry of returning to class, school provides the foundation to conquer fears and to personally grow.

As we get older, we often forget to spend time learning new things and seeking out new understanding. It can be difficult to deal with the pressures of our daily adult routine or work assignments. We often complain about technology moving so fast. The good thing though is that we live in an age where there is unsurpassed training and opportunities for learning available. Countless online trade and college level courses abound along with local area opportunities. Developing and learning new skills is a great example to provide our kids. Don’t toss aside your memories of the magic of childhood. Pass forward experiences and new skills to our kids as they strive to imagine reaching their dreams.

Without question, my teachers and my community provided me the life lessons and covered an array of subjects to conquer my fears to do what I do now. School also provides a place to develop leadership skills, conflict resolution and learning how to interact with a diverse group of people.

I remember at my eighth grade graduation listening to a group of high school students on the importance of getting involved with sports and extracurricular activities. I made it a goal to be involved with as many activities as I could in high school. I participated in sports, drama, music, student government and, yes, the school newspaper. I learned so many life lessons participating on teams along with leadership lessons serving as student body president and learning how to be organized while meeting club deadlines.

As a community let’s provide a foundation of support for our kids and their teachers, who provide creativity along with a solid education.

So as the kids go back to school, pass along your experience, assist kids with reaching their goals and look at opportunities for you to expand your skills, and together we will be a learning community.

Frank Perea

Publisher