School’s out Friday

My school is steeped in tradition. I like it. A lot.

Surprisingly, really.

It’s surprising to me, anyway, because I didn’t attend a private school when I was a kid. I went to a high school in a lower demographic area and then went on to teach at that same school for well over a decade all up, give or take a few years out when I had my kids and taught at a couple of other schools. The school was not steeped in tradition, but it was a supportive community for the students and the teachers there were a unified group. Sadly, the original school no longer exists. A victim of the Kennett years of Government here in Victoria, when forced amalgamations saw some very good schools go by the wayside. I was a staunch supporter of public education, and still am. I swore I would never teach at a private school, but here I am, doing just that and feeling very connected to the community I belong to. I no longer beat myself up about this; I know very well that I wouldn’t be doing the things I’m doing now had I not made this career change. I’m very grateful that I work in a school that supports my professional development and allows me to explore new ways of doing things.

But back to tradition. House activities are high on the agenda at my school and one of these is House Music. In house groups, the students all sing a set song, and then they have Madrigal performances when smaller groups represent their house and sing a song of their choice. This year, one of the groups sang Fleetwood Mac’s ‘Landslide‘. It was simply beautiful. I was immersed in the moment as they sang and haven’t been able to let the song go ever since. On days like that, I can feel the school’s traditions wafting over me. And I like it. A lot.

I don’t know why, but the song has been with me today. So I thought I’d share it with you too. I hope you enjoy it.

Have a great weekend. School resumes here on Monday, so I intend to make the most of the time left before the engine starts up again.