The Big 3-O!

Post date: Mar 21, 2019 9:10:19 PM

What a FANTASTIC event we had yesterday! I cannot remember a more wonderful, better attended, more cohesive event than our 30th Anniversary Party.

First, I'd like to give a huge shout out to the EDP staff. Where do I begin? I wish you could have seen them in action because the extent of my appreciation for all of them knows no bounds. Each and every staff member was completely "present" throughout a very long day, giving, serving, and being aware of what was needed to create a once-in-a-lifetime experience for the EDP family. Whether it was clearing the stage, rotating stations, setting up snack and decorating, putting gymnastic mats away, monitoring bathrooms, being sure parents signed out, inspecting areas or making sure our daily chores were done, nothing was left undone. All of this, and with smiles through it all.

Secondly, I'd like to acknowledge the support from our Administration. Superintendent Adams, Assistant Superintendent Viera, Principal Caira, Principal Regan, and Vice Principal Bennett all joined us at some point throughout the afternoon to join in the festivities. Thank you, also, to our custodian, Mr. Walker, for his help troubleshooting a blown fuse in the gym. Without the support of the School Committee and the entire Ashland Public Schools over the past 30 years, we would not have enjoyed the growth and success that we have been blessed with.

Thirdly, thank you to all of the parents who made arrangements to allow their children to come on their "off day", be bussed to a different location, and stay until the party ended. Thanks, also, to the parents who were able to attend the performance in the auditorium and to everyone for their many well-wishes.

Lastly, I would like to thank all of the members of the Parent Advisory Board who have served tirelessly for the past 30 years. Without their original proposal to the School Committee, EDP would never have been born. In particular, I would like to thank Cindy Shields, the original president of the PAB who retired from the Board just this past fall after 30 years and Mr. Jeff Paradis, who has been my financial mentor for the program for many years.

I could never have imagined in 1989 with a total enrollment of 50 students and 3 staff (including me!) that I was at the beginning of something so special. I can unequivocally say that I am #trulyblessed.