#WeAreHBR
To say we were ecstatic for the start of in-person learning on August 19th is an understatement. We were grateful that HBR offered hybrid learning as an option for this school year. As my 8th grader and 10th grader posed for that obligatory first day of school picture in true Covid style with masks on, both my heart and mind grew heavy. The start of the school year was filled with a flood of emotions, but especially excitement and nervousness. As their mother, I was questioning everything. There were so many unknowns. They came home that first day beaming, and I then knew we had made the right decision for our children. They couldn’t wait to share every detail of their 2.5 hour day. They were thrilled to be reunited with their friends and teachers. They didn’t mind wearing their masks, undergoing temperature checks, or social distancing in the halls; they were ecstatic to physically be back in school. My high schooler had to adapt to quarters instead of semesters while my middle schooler quickly learned to navigate white and blue days. We have all become Google Classroom pros while we follow announcements for classes and clubs and special spirit activities. Everyday after my children arrive home from hybrid learning they then begin an independent study in Culinary Arts. You should see the “gourmet” lunches my children prepare, and the mess I come home to every afternoon. In all honesty we have good days and we have bad days. We have had as many laughs as we have tears. Some days our WiFi at home is spotty and kicks us off of Google Meets, some days we forget to charge our Chromebooks, some days we are totally lost in remote e-learning, and some days we are so frustrated and angry for no reason at all. Everyday is a new day. I can tell you during this time my children have persevered in so many ways. They have learned grace and how to ask for help when they are struggling both academically and emotionally. They are eager to learn. They have a new appreciation for their dedicated teachers who continue to amaze me with their patience, ingenuity, and genuine kindness. My children long for the return of sports, clubs, dances, field trips, and just a sense of normalcy as we all do. The staff at HBR has been incredible. HBR staff have exceeded my expectations in so many ways. They are passionate about their roles as educators, and truly love what they do and it is evident in so many ways. Thank you for answering the countless emails, phone calls, and setting up office hours via Google Meets for extra support. Your hard work and good deeds are not going unnoticed or unappreciated in my household. Thank you HBR staff for continuing to teach my children grit, resilience, and perseverance. In a year where we were all tested beyond our measure, I find it both comforting and reassuring to be a member of the Royal HBR family. #TogetherWeGotThis
