It is well known that during times of tragedy we often see the best of humanity. This is so true in Sonoma County as we continue to move forward after the firestorm. As a principal in the Windsor Unified School District at Brooks Elementary School, I am so proud and humbled to be a part of this process.
In the very early morning hours of Oct. 9, my colleagues and I were diligently working to support the staff and community. Per our instructions from leadership at the district level, principals were calling staff members to assess their safety and wellbeing. Colleagues were calling each other and everyone was helping with an emergency that we had no idea would be so deadly. As the hours became days and the days became weeks, the support, care and love never waned.Â
Once the district was sure that the air quality was safe for all, school resumed. The first day back was for staff only. As at all sites, Brooks was abuzz with empathy and concern. As we at Brooks took stock of the disaster and how it had impacted our own lives, we also began the all-important task of preparing for our students and their families. Teachers and other staff knew that this was going to be a very critical return to school. This would be a re-entry that the staff and the students had never experienced before.
As the children arrived on Oct. 18, every staff member was in place to welcome, support and gently reassure the students. Using the tools of our Responsive Classroom program and the vast experience of our staff, our first days went very well. Teachers observed every student and reported information to our psychologist, our counselor and me on a daily basis. Children who needed immediate attention were sent for emotional support right away.
As the days progressed, discussions in the classrooms were suitable and comforting. Assignments allowed students to deal with a myriad of feelings, both individually and when appropriate, in a group setting. The resiliency of our children was and is amazing.
A little more than a month after the fires, Brooks is running well and students are back to their daily routines. We will continue to address this tragedy as it naturally comes up for the children. Some of our long-term plans have been altered and approaches in the classroom and on the playground have been reassessed.
The effects of this tragedy will be with us for a very long time, but the universal support of our staff, students, parents and the community has made us even stronger.
I personally want to express my appreciation for the amazing support and concern I have received. I am so fortunate to have friends and colleagues that have become my family. It really is true, we are Brooks Strong, Windsor Strong and Sonoma Strong.
Kimberlee Kimes is the principal at Brooks Elementary School.
