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Dear Riley Family and Friends,
Spring has sprung here in Maryland and sources tell me that the midcoast is hot on its heels. It’s an exciting time for those of us who like to garden and putter around outside in the fresh air. I am in the home stretch of a master gardener course through the University of Maryland Extension Campus and am now seeing things through new eyes. Although I could have done without the in-person, high-res entomology class, I have loved learning all I can about composting, soil amendment, and much more. I hope to be able to dabble in this a bit at school in the greenhouse. Be forewarned that many potted plants may soon adorn the decks of the Riley campus! I can’t seem to not be around plants and feel at peace.
I understand the spring mud has arrived at Riley, along with a substantial delivery of wood chips, and I know campus will be ready for the upcoming Maine Maple Sunday event. My family and I are looking forward to seeing this tradition for the first time and experiencing one of the many wonderful things the midcoast has to offer. It is these unique traditions that link us to the natural world and which drew me to Riley School in the first place.
I am excited to connect with the facilitators and staff again as well. Our prior visit to campus in December demonstrated just how welcoming, passionate, skilled, and committed they are to the children and to the school. While searching for the right opportunity for my next career adventure, I was mindful of finding just the right fit where I could lead collaboratively and learn from those who always have a read on the pulse of the community: the staff. I feel that we will have much to learn from each other as a team.
I have also been learning a lot from the Board of Trustees and extend my thanks to them for going out of their way to ensure that my family and I feel supported during this transition.
I hope to see many Riley families at Maple Sunday, too, and am eager to spend the school year getting to know you even better. I’m honored to carry forward the foundation established by Glenna, which was then stewarded masterfully for so many years by Becky. It is these guiding principles that will continue to inform Riley School’s bright future.
See you all soon!
Annie Hasselgren
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