Grace & William ~

This was a big week for the both of you because you started pre-K. On your first day of school Grace slept late. This is your normal routine, as you stay up reading until 11:00 pm sometimes. On your first day of school, all of the parents and children met in the field (as we learned we would do every Tuesday and Thursday morning) at the Friends School of Portland. The new school is in its 2nd year of operation.

The Friends School is an independent pre-K through 8th grade Quaker school on Mackworth Island (you call it the Island of Sodar). Mackworth Island is your island - just across the street from our home. In 1631, Sir Ferdinando Gorges gave the island to Arthur Mackworth, his deputy in Casco Bay, and the island has retained his name. In 1957, Maine's governor Percival P. Baxter deeded his summer home on the island to create the Governor Baxter School for The Deaf. Your classrooms are in the old Baxter school.

Your teacher is Lea Sutton and her helper is Pauli Wood.

Mommy and Daddy picked this school for you because it emphasizes high standards for independent thinking and personal integrity.  We also thought it would be a safe place for you.  We arrived shortly before 8:00 am.  William, you had a difficult time letting go and cried for a wee bit as we snuck away.  Grace, you showed your independent spirit. 

Good luck.  Grow and learn.

Daddy