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Hello Blossom Hill Families!
As we all prepare for the new school year, I thought I would tell you a little about how things started out for our family a few years back...
Our first day at Blossom Hill was in August 2019, we were new to Los Gatos, from Los Angeles, and my 2nd grader at the time, Leighton, and I were both a bit nervous...to say the least. We walked through the gates, (the way we could pre-Covid) and headed to Mrs. DiSessa's classroom. L hung her backpack on a hook and I gave her a huge hug, one that I hoped could somehow last her all day. I tried to hide any tears as best I could and began a pep talk, that I'm sure was as much for me, as it was for her, "Be brave, be yourself, it is going to be amazing!"I told her this, or us, more accurately, as I squeezed a little harder than she was probably expecting, but we both needed it.
I walked back through the gate and headed to the Welcome Coffee where I met and talked with parents and listened as Mrs. Reynolds and H&SC Board members talked about how wonderful Blossom Hill was. While I was sure they were right, it was hard for me to concentrate, as I was certain my 7-year old, who knew no one, was sitting in a classroom yards away feeling nervous and unsure. However, one very important thing that did manage to get through was, "get involved" and I knew I could do that.
I was lucky enough to have been very involved at our previous school and it kept me in the loop. I got to know teachers and staff, I learned how things worked on campus, it kept me closer to my kiddo and helped me to connect with her friends and their families. Getting involved had built our village in Los Angeles, and I knew it could do the same in Los Gatos. I signed on that first year as the Co-Chair of the Staff Appreciation Committee and stayed on for two years before becoming the President-Elect and now the President of the Home and School Club. I am truly thankful for the village we have built here everyday. It has sustained us as we continue to learn about our community and has saved me more than once when I am running just a minute late for pick-up, or when it's time to get involved in extracurricular activities, when we have school calendar or homework questions, when we are out of town and need our fish fed, when we need a recommendation for a doctor, or a haircut, or even a birthday cake, or when we are having troubles navigating details at school or around town.
Our younger daughter started kindergarten at Blossom Hill last year and our village has continued to grow, making life a bit easier knowing our kids days are surrounded by laughter with friends, teachers and staff who are genuinely invested in their happiness and success, and families who treat our children as their own.
I know from experience that the first day of school comes with mixed emotions for both parents and kiddos. For many it's excitement with kids who are thrilled to be on campus and for others there is trepidation mixed with some sadness for quieter homes, and missing little faces all day. However you may be feeling, I want to assure you that Blossom Hill Elementary is the kind of place where you will find dedication and enthusiasm for children to learn and grow into their full potential, both academically and socially. Here you will also find the support both parents and students need when adjusting to new situations, meeting challenges, or making new connections. Our school community is dedicated, strong, and happy to continue growing.
Whether you have one hour free a month or your schedule is wide open, let us know, and we will help you find the perfect opportunity to put your talents to use in the very best way.
Join us, get involved, we are so glad you're here!
Kristin Hutchinson
H&SC President 2022-23
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