School districts are inherently human organizations whose energy is derived from its students, staff, parents, and community. Opportunities to promote human connections, even when and where they don't naturally seem to exist, is an important role of our schools.
One of the many benefits of a One Campus model is the opportunity for students to connect with each other in ways that would not be otherwise available. Last Thursday, for example, GHS and MIW held a second-ever joint annual event called, simply, "Meet in the Middle." Kindergarteners and high school seniors quite literally "met in the middle" of the Glen Hutchins Field, pairing up with a big or little buddy for a few moments while swapping introductions, book sharing, and light conversation. With the bleachers full of parents and guardians on hand for the occasion, it truly was a special marker in the life of the school district. Time seemed to have stood still, at least for a brief moment.