HAPPY NEW YEAR!!
     The future has arrived at our doorstep! …and yet, it's really just another day like all the other days that have come before. Still, we have a unique opportunity to take stock, assess what we are doing, and take a fresh look at making a difference in our children's lives-because, after all, children are the future.
     At Crestwood Hills, through the cooperative efforts of all of you loving, nurturing, devoted, talented, generous, hard working, and supportive parents, in conjunction with the gifted staff, the future is unfolding in an incredibly positive manner. Your fundraising efforts have taken the school to new heights. Your weekend workdays have shined and brightened our environment. Your classroom workdays have delighted and thrilled the children and been of invaluable assistance to the staff. And there is MORE, so much more that you do all day, everyday, that makes a difference and contributes to the development of your children, our future. Thank you!
     The preschool years are so very important and the role that each of us plays contributes to their development in unique and valuable ways. Everyday in subtle ways you show your children what is expected of them. This is NOT about perfection…your children don't need you to be perfect and they don't need you to be an expert. The kind of parent your child really needs is YOU.
     Children look to the adults in their lives to teach them how to "be in the world." As the new year (indeed-the new century) unfolds, let's commit to affirming the culture of "inclusion." This is a move away from withdrawal and isolation into involvement and participation. Perhaps, if we model for our children how to embrace ideas, diversity, change and each other, they will be ready for the future when it arrives at their doorstep tomorrow. For each one of you I hope the New Year brings you and those you love much happiness.

--- Cathy Wagener