An email received by the parents
of children studying at Parkview Elementary School appeared to be a Mother's
Day misunderstanding. After receiving the mail from the school, some parents thought
that the school was about to cancel celebrations. Jayne Holck, Principal, Parkview
Elementary School, said that the parents were worried if the school was
replacing the Mother's Day celebration. She added that the school certainly had
no intent to replace or to not honor mothers.
The email stated that the
school considers that it would be more applicable to make the celebration more
inclusive. It added that during next week students will prepare gifts to demonstrate
their appreciation to those who influence their lives in a constructive way. The
intention was to be sensitive to students affected by the loss of a parental
figure. Principal Holck stated that the school’s 4th-grade teachers
were showing empathy and sympathy to all students in the classroom.
This week, for Mother's
Day celebration, the school initiated an activity named “Muffins with Moms.” The
children as well will prepare cards. In addition to the celebrations this week,
the school is supposed to have a full week of activities later in May 2019 for
kids. In this week, they will celebrate anyone who influences their life
positively.
"Maybe they don't
have a parent or a typical family in their life right now that they can address
that gift to -- whoever it is that's in that role," Holck said. Additionally,
officers with the Cedarburg School District proclaimed that they are planning
to reassess messages adjoining celebrations to ensure that the meaning is
clear. This was said to be the 3rd year the school sent an email.
The Parkview principal proclaimed that a few parents were concerned until it
was clarified. At the same time, others were thankful that the school sent an
email.
