From Little Steps to Giant Leaps

Did anyone else wake up this morning with the stunning realization that it’s almost June?? If you’re anything like me, the year has flown by in a blur. That’s certainly the case at City Preschool where it’s so easy to see the growth in three- four- and five-year-olds. They are taller, more articulate, and some are even sassy! We can see their growth in confidence, in their willingness to take risks and the depth of their questions. You’ve heard from me a few times over the past year. But I think it’s high time you hear from the ladies who make this place run day in and day out. Here’s a word from the City Preschool teachers:

“We had a year full of beautiful chaos with cute little faces. It’s sad to see it come to an end!”– Ms. Monika

“It has been exciting and fulfilling to see how much the children have learned and grown this year. In the beginning, there were struggles to share, play well with others and learn and follow our routine. Throughout the year the children have learned what it means to be a good friend, how to take turns and enjoy following our routine each day. I will miss their funny stories that they share with me and how well they play with each other. They get deeply immersed in pretend play and are usually great at cooperating with each other. It has been fun to see them excited to expand their abilities: to recognize and write their names, learn about the planets and the world around them and learn new nursery rhymes and songs. I will miss seeing their sweet faces each day, but I am so very proud of them and how much they’ve grown!”– Ms. Emily

“I can’t believe the school year is already over! Time truly flies when you’re having fun. What an honor it’s been, getting to know each and every child and playing an important role during such a crucial time of their development. I’ve watched every child grow: socially, emotionally, intellectually and of course physically, but it’s so special to see them absolutely flourish. From the girl who started out so quiet you could barely make out what she was saying – who is now the loudest at circle time – to the boy who couldn’t tell you his name and can now tell you everyone’s name (including his own) and speaks full sentences. From the boy who seldom spoke and now has full-on conversations, asking the most intricate questions to the one who was so slow-to-warm, with such big emotions but is now the happiest kid, helping his friends navigate their big emotions. All the friendships that have developed between the kids – it’s truly so special.” – Ms. Caycy

Guys…is someone cutting onions? Or maybe it’s my allergies. I’m absolutely blessed to work with this great team of women everyday! 

We’re excited to be on the cusp of yet another “first” as we prepare to begin our premier summer school program! We’re adding kids and staff and are looking forward to the fun months ahead.

On the other end of the spectrum, our adult learners have been blossoming, too! Not only in terms of numbers (we had 46 registered for winter/spring sessions) but certainly in very similar ways to the little ones in the preschool, many of whom are their children. There’s a wonderful community forming among students in the traditional classes which are held with Carla at the Excel Center. Carla Hurtado started with us many years ago as a volunteer in childcare. But when it was time to begin our own English classes two years ago, we knew that, with her decades of experience as an English Language teacher, she’d be a great fit as our first English teacher. Under her guidance. Students have blossomed. It’s been truly amazing to see how once-timid students are now confidently raising their hands to answer (or ask) questions and lending support to one another in this shared journey. The Excel Center’s staff and students have been more welcoming than we could’ve ever imagined, and we are forever grateful to them. Carla and I were even able to join members of the Excel team for a national conference in St. Louis this spring where we shared about our unique partnership.

David, our Director of Development, has been hard at work with his team. Here are some of the cool things they’ve been up to:

The Level 2 and 3 students produced Digital Literacy stories which they presented to each other and City of Refuge staff. All of the students’ digital literacy skills are improving greatly! It’s wonderful to see how comfortable they’re becoming with their computers. 

Several students have gotten driver’s permits and licenses, thanks to the volunteers (and VV!) who help with the driving simulator. 

Eraste’s cooking classes have been a big hit. CoR staff are always happy to take the yummy results of these weekly lessons off his hands!

And just to think, this wasn’t much more than a dream and a prayer just a few years ago. As the saying goes, “Many hands make light work.” With the hundreds of combined volunteer hours, your financial donations and support of all kinds, we at City of Refuge believe that this is true.

I know we say it all the time. 

And I hope you never tire of hearing our very sincere…

Thank you.

Candace Hulsizer

Director of Education and City Preschool

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