Kind Words...

Megan and I would like to thank Dr. Robert Burt, principal of Abington Senior High, for his kind words in his recent Principal’s Newsletter dated 1/18.

A Heartwarming Story
There is nothing better, in this age of uncertainty and conflict, than a good story that speaks directly to an act of great humanity. As teachers and administrators, we are frequently given the opportunity to serve as audience to some incredible kindness or of some overwhelming challenge that has been overcome. Occasionally the story will be so completely captivating in its scope that it is impossible not to feel diminished in the presence of such great people.

A story of this magnitude unfolded today before school in the English Department office as several of us were trying to revive ourselves on mega doses of caffeine contained in Mr. Kelly’s freshly brewed coffee. Mr. Shawn Simmons, English teacher, turned to the group and announced that the formal application that he and his wife filed for adoption of a child had been approved. The group instantly cheered and applauded this magnificent announcement. But that was only the edge of the story. As Mr. Simmons spoke, we learned that he and his wife are going to adopt an Ethopian family consisting of two twin girls and one boy. This will bring his family to a total of four children.

A silence—which believe me is not characteristic of the English Department office—fell over the room as we attempted to absorb the enormity of this decision. But the silence did not last long as the questions began to be fired in rapid order. We learned that Mr. and Mrs. Simmons will be traveling to Ethiopia this summer to meet their children and to bring them home to meet their new brother Braeden.

I have spent the entire day today in awe that our world contains people who are willing to give so much to humanity. The fact that our little Abington world is privileged to be the site of this event makes it all the more special.

I wish to congratulate Mr. and Mrs. Simmons on the occasion of the growth of their family. My hope is that our Abington family will be a central part in supporting this extraordinary decision. The support that we will provide for the Simmons family will be a small way of sharing in the joy of this moment.