EC Principal Letter

Dear ANCS Elementary  Families, 

I hope you had a meaningful and peaceful MLK holiday weekend. Last week we reflected on the following quote from Dr. King. “If I cannot do great things, I can do small things in a great way.” Students thought about how small acts of kindness can have a ripple effect and create great joy in our school and community. This week we will continue to reflect on the work  and wisdom of Dr. King. Our mindful moment this week is centered around a quote from Dr. King, “The time is always right to do what’s right.” Ask your child what this quote means to them. 

In 1983, President Ronald Regan signed legislation to create a federal holiday to celebrate the birthday of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. This was a long struggle. President Regan initially opposed the establishment of the holiday and it wasn’t until 1986 that the holiday was actualized and citizens across the United States were given a day to honor one of the most inspirational speakers and leaders in American history. This was the first time a federal holiday was enacted for an African American. 

Martin Luther King, Jr. would have turned 97 years old this year. Here at school students are having discussions in an effort to deepen their understanding of why we take this day off from school and to create a better appreciation of the work of Dr. King. Most importantly, we want our students to ponder how they, too, can practice the teachings of Dr. King. We encouraged our students to participate in a service project, that is age appropriate for them, of course. However, regardless of how you spent your weekend, I hope you enjoyed it and found the right way for your family to celebrate the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. 

As we look into February, I wanted you all to know that we have a celebrations committee here at the EC and they are working diligently on our Black History Month celebration, which we will begin in February. I will be sharing more about what we will be doing in school and ways that you can extend learning at home in my upcoming courier letters. So, be on the lookout for that. 

As always, I am happy to answer any questions you may have. Thank you for your continued partnership and trust in our school. 

Wishing you well,

Lara

Lara Zelski

Lara Zelski began working at ANCS in 2007. Previously, she worked at the Howard School and taught art, Spanish, reading and math. She taught 6th, 4th, and 2nd in DeKalb County. She taught 4th and 5th grade in Decatur and then moved to Title One reading and math instruction for 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders. She taught 5th grade at the ANCS elementary campus for two years.