Japhet School

A Clear Message of Character: 6/5/20

As this school year comes to a close, my heart is full of gratitude for a year of growth, including the struggles and victories, the fostering of new relationships, and exploring new avenues to fulfill Japhet’s mission to nurture and prepare each child for life by integrating character education with a strong academic program. I’m grateful for our partnership in Japhet’s mission — parents, teachers, staff, students, board of trustees, and friends of Japhet alike — supporting our common goal that will have an impact on our community for years to come.

During this time of serious challenges, including the recent health crisis and societal upheaval, Japhet School sends a clear message of character, honoring our differences, having respect for others and ourselves, expressing courage, justice, humility, gratitude, and peace. We value each individual’s voice and seek avenues to provide the opportunity to share our thoughts.

Just last evening, the 2020 graduates of Japhet School, their parents and teachers, Mrs. Pospisil and myself had the opportunity to enjoy a time of reflection and sharing. There were many laughs and a few tears, but mostly gratitude was expressed for the long-standing educational climate that Japhet students enjoy. All expressed gratitude for the opportunity to simply be themselves, feel secure in that expression, and that their opinions and thoughts are valued.

Today we honor our graduates — Diva, Ben, and Kam — and applaud their individual achievements. This year our Graduation Ceremony has been recorded for all to enjoy in the comforts of your homes. I know that you join me in hearty congratulations to our graduates!

In closing, I’ve likened this year as to steering a ship through some calm and turbulent waters. I believe that when the navigation of the ship proved the toughest, the entire crew rowed harder and we pressed on to calmer waters. Thank you to each of you who grabbed an oar and rowed with me! And…I’m sure that whatever is on the horizon we will be equally prepared to navigate.

You will hear more from me this summer as more information comes to light regarding the opening of school for the 2020-2021 school year. Please know that you can reach me during the summer through email and by phone. Enjoy your summer, your families, and your friends!

I leave you with a quote from Fred Rogers, “As different as we are from one another, as unique as each one of us is, we are much more the same than we are different. That may be the most essential message of all, as we help our children to grow toward being caring, compassionate, and charitable adults.”

Kerri G. Vizena
Head of School