Dear Brown MS Community,

This coming Monday is Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. There is no school this Monday to honor his life. On MLK Day, Newton holds a celebration sponsored by the Harmony Foundation (information below) that is always inspiring. There are musical selections and student speakers at this event each year. I encourage you to attend. Regardless of where you are on Monday, take a moment to reflect on the messages of Dr. King.

I share this pictured quote from Dr. King because I feel it speaks to the enormous importance of our public education system. There are multiple layers to a “true education” that include both intelligence and character. Our NPS Portrait of a Learner elevates five competencies that all students in the NPS system must develop. (They are also reflected in our foundational Bear Beliefs.)

In a public education system, rigorous academics and high standards are integral to success. Equally as important is producing a generation of individuals that demonstrate character through empathy and adaptability. They must learn to respond to their environment with resilience and creativity despite set backs and they must develop the ability to communicate clearly, concisely and honestly. Much of our nation’s future success depends on our success together, as a village, to raise children with both intelligence and character. We appreciate your partnership with us to grow our shared children into solid citizens who will make the world a better place.

On a personal note, we are happy to be back at home after a crazy end to our trip to Amsterdam. Unfortunately, all of the hectic travel adjustments and lack of sleep finally caught up to my immune system, and I am now battling a cold. I plan to recuperate this weekend and will be back better than ever on Tuesday!

Enjoy the long weekend!

Kim Lysaght, Principal