Loving our Hope Family by Kristen Okabayashi, Hope Principal
We shared earlier today about the loss of our dear Hope Parent Jana Layman (Ablin). I am personally feeling some of the same emotions that you might be feeling also: sadness, anger, grief, and disbelief.
As we talk with the students at school, I thought it might be helpful to share some recommendations that we have learned from counselors:
- Stick with what we actually know about the situation – do not make assumptions or guesses about what happened, and use simple words with students.
- If your child will be regularly around the student who is grieving (Josh is in third grade, Serena is in fifth grade), encourage them to treat the student as they usually do, sharing care and friendship but also keeping the friendship consistent with how it was before the loss.
- Find a tangible way to share care and love, such as some of the ideas we suggested earlier – a card in particular, or another small gift of love.
- Reassure students that this is not something that commonly occurs, as it is normal for them to be scared and anxious.
- Realize that this type of loss can trigger a grief response in others who may have recently experienced grief or loss.
- Pray with your child together.
I was able to join the prayer vigil for Jana last night, which was helpful for me. As adults, we need to care for ourselves as well! While a situation like this comes with deep feelings of sadness, anger, and helplessness, we have to remember the words of scripture that “God is our refuge and strength, an ever present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1), that Jesus was sent to “bind up the broken-hearted and provide comfort for those who mourn” (Isaiah 61:1-2), and He “is with us always, even to the end of time” (Matthew 28:20). I keep reminding myself to pray to let go of this burden, as God does not want us to carry His burden. I am glad to talk more about this, or help get resources for you or your family. I am thankful we are in an environment where we can journey through this together.
Jan. 14 to Jan. 24: Re-Enrollment for Current Families
Tues. 1/14: 6:30 PM Preschool Open House
Wed. 1/15: 8:40 AM Chapel led by Mr. Kopecky
Fri. 1/17: Free Dress Day
Re-Enrollment for Fall 2020 – January 14-24
Re-enrollment begins today for currently enrolled families. You will receive our re-enrollment packet today in the communication envelope with information on enrolling through K12online. All students will receive a new student number and access key.
On January 27, 2020 we will begin processing new applications from the community. If you have any questions about re-enrollment, please email or call the school office or admissions director at sheit@hopeseattle.org.
Preschool Open House, Tonight, Tuesday, January 14, 6:30 PM
Invite your friends, neighbors and family members to check out our Preschool Open House on Tuesday, January 14 at 6:30 pm. Hope School offers a 3 year-old and 4 year-old play-based programs with two to five day options and an option for extended care. Bring your little one and see first-hand the learning and fun students have here at Hope.
School Clubs at Hope – Visit Here
Visit our school website for updated information on our school clubs at www.hls.hopeschool.org.
LEST Events – Click Here
You can visit our event page on the school website or through this link: http://www.cu-portland.edu/admission/lutheran-elementary-school-tournament
Parent Involvement Program or PIP Opportunities
Lunch & Recess Help Still Needed – Tuesdays & Fridays
Hope Auction – Please consider signing up to make this the best auction yet and EARN PIP!!
Auction Meeting – Tuesday’s at 6:30 PM
Church News & Activities – Click Here
Bible Study – Join The Story in 2020! Have you ever wondered what’s in the Bible or wanted to read it? Join Hope beginning in January 2020 as we begin reading the “Story” together. It is an abridged version of the Bible arranged in a chronological format written to read like a novel. For more information click here. Join the Facebook discussion group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/HLSeattle.TheStory
Seattle Lutheran High School Open House – Thursday, Jan. 30, 2020 from 7:00 – 8:30 PM
Join us for our Open House featuring a look at the exciting courses offered during
J-Term, including our ecology trip to Fiji. It will feature a tour of the facility, as well as interaction with Seattle Lutheran’s faculty and administration. We are located at 4100 SW Genesee Street, Seattle, WA 98116. For more information contact Rachel Bigliardi at 206-937-7722 or visit our website at www.seattlelutheran.org to RSVP for the open house.
