Weathering the storm

This year has challenged many of our assumptions about what we can count on being true and has disrupted what we considered to be normal. I have seen the phrase “We are all in the same storm, but not in the same boat” shared as the pandemic and other national events have raged, and appreciate the reminder that we are all weathering the storm in different ways. Patience with each other, assuming best intention, and responding with caring and kindness are tools that have helped navigate the challenges in a way that preserves one of our most important assets here at Prouty: the relationships we have with each other.

This past week has given us a remarkable example of the strength of our relationships as we have confronted a situation that we anticipated for months – someone in our learning community testing positive for coronavirus. We have experienced a range of emotions, from fear and anxiety to relief and hope, and we have been able to hold it all with grace and compassion. This includes staff, families and children. There are lessons to be learned about why it has gone smoothly and what we could have done better, and I am sure we will be reflecting about this for months to come. Taking time now to recognize the strengths we have will help us continue to be successful as we face the months ahead, knowing there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

Trust – it is evident that the foundation of trust we have with each other is fundamental to our success. What will be worth reflecting more on is how we build and maintain trust, and to make sure we continue doing those things.

Communication – one lesson we have learned is that erring on the side of overcommunicating is helpful. We also know that sharing information in a variety of ways is important. And that hearing from people about their questions and concerns is essential to make communications effective and meaningful. We have done surveys, posted visuals, made videos, sent emails and hosted Q&A sessions in an effort to make sure we are sharing and gathering all we can.

Caring – Our depth of caring for each other and our commitment to keeping each other safe has meant we have successfully implemented and followed the guidelines needed to be open and available.

Learning – continuing to seek information and understand how it applies to our organization has been a key part of managing concerns. It is easy to become overwhelmed with the headlines and news, and we have been diligent about drilling down to make sure we have what we need to be feel confident about how to be in operation if we can.

These are just some of the strengths of our community, and I am grateful to be part of such an amazing place. Thank you all for the trust and caring, and for staying engaged, it makes all the difference.

With deep gratitude,

Chloe