The Spirit in the Room
(Photo by Grand Life Photography.)
End of the fiscal year is a whirlwind for lots of reasons, but I really exacerbated the frantic nature of this period by scheduling the Wall of Fame at the end of June. We will NOT be doing that again. Luckily, July is here and we can spend a little time strategizing for next year, and wrapping up the one just passed.
Despite the Wall complicating our end-of-year procedures, it was a wonderful event. I had many people comment to me that it was the best one yet. I ask them why, in hopes that I can replicate the positives in the future. Many reply that it was the spirit in the room.
I know exactly what they meant. For a few reasons, the vibe at the Farmers Market was relaxed enthusiasm, if that can be a thing. People were so excited to have an opportunity to dress up and go out in person with folks since none of us have done much of that since the pandemic. The enthusiasm based upon this one fact was evidenced by the fact that only one person—ONE PERSON—asked me about masking and social distancing. People just wanted to get out.
Well, I can’t replicate that aspect of the spirit in the room—nor would I want to, as it was born out of crisis. But how to get that enthusiasm in other ways?
The other factor that built the spirit in the room was our honoree Dr. Greg Walton and his family. So many people pointed out how demonstrably loving and supportive his family was of him. They were evidently proud and had no reservations about sharing their joy at his achievements. I saw it too. His friends came out to celebrate him, and they are still making gifts to the PC Foundation in his honor.
I can’t replicate that aspect either. That’s just the Walton family. They are singular in their attitudes, and a witness to us all of how to love.
Educators are not invited to so many dress-up events, so it is my pleasure to host a fun party for them. I want people to not see this as a work event, but a fun night out on the town. The teachers and staff deserve this.
If you attended this year’s Wall of Fame, you’ll have a chance to complete a survey about it in the next few weeks. Your opinion is quite important to me.
If you didn’t attend, please plan on it. We’ll do it next April, and will be announcing the 2022 honoree later this year. No matter who it is, I can assure you it will be a fun night you won’t want to miss again.
by Jennifer Seal
July 1, 2021