DIRECTOR’S CORNER – A message from Suzie Smiser

 

How children learn is as important as what children learn.  I have seen this manifest itself so clearly during my 20 year-tenure as a staff member here at Baldwin Academy, first as a teacher in the Parakeet program, and ultimately as director of the school.I love to watch our students transform over the school year.  These young children are full of wonder – so curious, many of them even without words, and as the year progresses, they learn, thrive and grow.

Directing Baldwin Academy has been a wonderful experience.
My heart is full of pride at our daily accomplishments, knowing the work that is done is that which positively affects the young lives who are in our care. 

Studies show that early exposure to social and emotional skills creates higher achieving individuals.  Children benefit greatly from a structured environment and a program of fundamental academics.  Both build self confidence and good self-esteem.

I am grateful for and honored by the opportunity to work with such a phenomenal group of teachers and caregivers.  We all feel fortunate to have a beautiful facility
to spend our days with the funny, happy, smart children that make up Baldwin Academy.

Raising and educating young children is, for me, the most rewarding work.

“In youth we learn, in age we understand.”  (unknown)

Every day, I enjoy humorous exchanges with the children here.  They don’t necessarily intend to be funny but they are just the same.  Here is one conversation I shared with Linda, one of the four year-olds in our Big Nest program:

I ask, “Hi Linda, how are you doing?” (Linda’s class had just returned from a field trip).
            Wiping her forehead, Linda replies, “I just got back from vacation.”

Thank you for choosing to be a part of all that we do here at Baldwin Academy!