Sharon R Final Reflections

I sincerely thank Sue Luft and Michelle O'Donnell for another inspiring year of the CRG Collegial Group. I’ve been fortunate to be part of this group since it first began, and each year has brought new insights and learning. The knowledge I’ve gained about reading, writing, and phonics has helped shape the teacher I am today.

This year, however, especially stood out. Our focus on bringing play back into the classroom reignited something I’ve felt passionate about for a long time. In recent years, I’ve noticed how play has gradually faded from early childhood education. With increasingly rigorous curricula and children’s after-school hours packed with structured activities, those simple, imaginative moments of being a kid are becoming rare.

But these early years are formative and meant to be full of wonder. When I was a child, if I ever said I was bored, my mom would hand me paper towel rolls, tissue boxes, string, or anything she had around the house. My brother and I would invent games, build basketball hoops and telephone systems between rooms with toilet paper rolls and tape. My mom could never keep enough tape in the house! Those moments weren’t just fun—they taught us to be creative, resourceful, and curious. And those are the memories that have stayed with me the most.

That’s the kind of play we need to bring back—both in our classrooms and in children’s homes. These unstructured, hands-on experiences are not just important; they are essential.

I’ve also truly enjoyed working with colleagues across the district, and especially with Cathy Manin and Katie Herlihy—my grade-level team at Greenacres. We thrive on sharing ideas, supporting one another, and collaborating closely as we work toward this initiative together. The energy and creativity that come from our teamwork have made this experience even more meaningful.

Sue, thank you for always being a positive force. Your encouragement, wisdom, and joyful spirit have meant so much to me and to all of us. Your passion for teaching and learning has left a lasting impact, and your presence will be deeply missed.