BELONGING and Community
A MESSAGE FROM THE CHS PARENTS ’ AUXILIARY
I would like to start by thanking those who have taken the time to share their thoughts with me since I took on this role in May 2024 . Whether you shared new ideas , ideas for improvement or positive feedback , it is clear that you are passionate about the CHS community and that you genuinely care about the strength and vibrancy of our community connections .
A LOOK BACK
Looking back at last year , the Parents ’ Auxiliary ( PA ) continued to re-engage parents in volunteering and community participation following the pandemic . We were delighted to provide a full lineup of communitywide events such as the Welcome Back Event , Winter Bazaar , Used Uniform Sales , Staff Appreciation Event , the Backpack Program and the Year-End Celebration . Grade-based connections were nurtured through the Class Parent Program and Intake Year welcome receptions . Group or interest-based programming such as the Junior School Family Dance , the Senior School Service Together program , the Buddy Program for incoming families , Grandparents Day for Junior Kindergarten to Grade 3 families , and the Community Book Club rounded out our lineup . These programs and events have been led and supported by an incredible group of parent volunteers who generously contribute their time and talent to making our community what it is .
BELONGING AND LOOKING AHEAD
Belonging is one of the core commitments of the current CHS strategic plan , and connectionbuilding has been a key focus of the PA since its inception over 50 years ago . Cultivating connections and ultimately fostering a sense of belonging for the community as a whole remains our overarching goal to this day .
Beyond the role that a sense of belonging might play in the School ’ s strategic plan or the mission of the PA , belonging is fundamental to our own health and well-being , according to an article from the Mayo Clinic Health System ( December 5 , 2021 ).
“ We cannot separate the importance of a sense of belonging from our physical and mental health . The social ties that accompany a sense of belonging are a protective factor helping manage stress and other behavioral issues . When we feel we have support and are not alone , we are more resilient , often coping more effectively with difficult times in our lives . Coping well with hardships decreases the physical and mental effects of these situations .”
The article continues with suggestions to bolster connection . Below are a few of the suggestions from the article that I see in action every day within the CHS community :
• Make an effort : The most crucial ingredient to building a sense of belonging is effort ; you cannot belong if you don ’ t choose to make the effort to belong
• Keep and model an open mind : Try new activities , meet new people , consider new ways of thinking , and lead by example so your children can see how it works
• Practice an attitude of acceptance : Recognize that others have different ways of being , which doesn ’ t have to change you ; focus on similarities , rather than differences
As we look ahead , the PA ’ s approach will need to adapt to the evolving needs of our community , with the goal of fostering a sense of belonging across the full community . This approach will be guided by some of the ideas above . We are ultimately connected by our daughters and our shared commitment to girl-centred education and a highly engaged community .
To this end , I invite you to join us in contributing to a sense of belonging and connection within our community . We need your voices , energy and efforts in sustaining the vibrant and inclusive community that is a hallmark of the CHS experience .
As always , your thoughts and ideas are welcome . Please feel free to reach out to me via auxiliary @ croftonhouse . ca .
With appreciation ,
Tracy Tong Chair , CHS Parents ’ Auxiliary
48