A Welcome Back Letter from Director of the Nest Michelle Dolan
Dear Nest Families,
We are at the beginning of a new school year, and it is my pleasure to extend a warm welcome to you—our returning families and those joining us for the first time. We are thrilled to have you as part of our community. I hope your summer has been relaxing and enjoyable, with meaningful moments spent with family and friends.
My summer was wonderful, filled with leisurely days, long walks accompanied by podcasts and audiobooks, and a few memorable adventures. In mid-June, I traveled with my son, a competitive swimmer, to the Olympic swimming trials. Along with 20,000 cheering fans, we witnessed a world record in the women’s 100-meter backstroke! It was an unforgettable moment, showcasing the athlete’s passion, hard work, and unique talents, amplified by the crowd’s electric energy.
Recently, I explored “Our Places: Connecting People and Nature,” an exhibit at the Smithsonian’s Natural History Museum. There, I learned about scientists and community leaders addressing various environmental justice issues. Their efforts, ranging from preventing the spread of invasive insects that threaten pollinators to improving soil quality through Indigenous agricultural practices and promoting equitable access to green spaces in urban areas, highlight how personal experiences with nature can inspire action to protect our natural resources and enhance our quality of life.
Soon, your children will create their own stories as they discover the beauty, magic, and complexity of the natural world. They will develop deep connections with each other and the spectacular outdoor environments at the farm. While building academic and social-emotional skills, they will care for each other and the world around them. Through these experiences, they will learn to “use their powers” and, perhaps, become stewards of the Earth, much like the scientists and community leaders featured in the museum exhibit.
While I cherish the slower pace of summer, I am eager to return to the farm, the familiar rhythm of the school day, and the excitement and joy of teaching and learning in early childhood. This year, our talented team includes ten teachers and three assistant teachers, supporting five homerooms with 67 students in nursery (Chickadees, Mockingbirds, and Cardinals) and pre-kindergarten (Peaceful Pines and Mighty Oaks). We look forward to partnering with you, guiding your child’s journey, and celebrating their successes.
Please look out for information in the upcoming weeks about class placement and details about orientation and home visits (for students new to the Nest). Make sure to complete the health forms you’ve received from Wheeler’s Health Services.
Enjoy these final days of summer and welcome to the 2024-2025 school year!
Warm regards,
Michelle