As SWAN’s executive director, I was privileged to visit our Rising Stars after-school class. From when I arrived to when I left, I was impressed by the peaceful, caring, and fun environment our music and mental health staff created for every child. Our board president, Deanna Riccardelli, set the tables with after-school snacks that drew the children to their places. While they were eating, Holly Germeroth taught a Bible lesson. Afterward, she wondered if the children had listened because they were fidgety, but my observation was that if they forgot the lesson, they certainly would remember the love and respect she showed them with her words and peaceful countenance.
I observed each teacher’s patience and kindness despite the children’s many interruptions and difficulties when having trouble sitting still, being quiet, and focusing. Yet, I marveled at how much was learned and accomplished by the end of the two hours!
When our students began singing “The Green Grass Grows All Around,” I noticed how that song required their full attention and a focused mind to follow the quick sequence of words and movements set to music. They were having a blast, and some were dancing, all while their music teacher, Janet Rawleigh’s beautiful voice, and Allan Dutton’s guitar kept the melodies streaming.
One of our 9-year-olds would randomly run from his seat and, when found, was filled with anxiety. While everyone else was singing, I saw him talking with our mental health counselor, Tracy Brunke. Her caring countenance allowed him to tell his story, which could make any adult fearful and anxious. Nothing in his world made sense to him, but he found someone who would listen and could help. He is no longer isolated.
I observed how the children valued their friendships and cared for each other as they sat with mental health counselor Sonya Lanz. She allowed each child to express themselves while thoughtfully guiding the conversation in their social-emotional class. Our classroom assistant, Connie Livingston, gently approached a child who felt on the outs that day and encouraged her to join her classmates. Those purposeful interactions from each teacher characterized the sessions, creating a safe haven for their students to heal, learn, and succeed. I couldn’t be more proud of our team and am tremendously grateful for their dedication to SWAN’s mission and students.
