I have been truly inspired this month by all of the heartfelt efforts that our girls have put into our many concerts and celebrations. Our Winter Concerts were absolutely beautiful and really showcased the musicianship of both our Junior School and Senior School students. The Celebration of Community was a wonderful mix of the theatrical and the musical. It was so much fun to laugh and sing along! I want to thank our Music and Band teachers, Dawn Haylett, Heather Christensen and Lia Wolfe as well as our Drama teacher, Shannon Harrigan, for their work in preparing the girls for these performances.
This week’s Candlelight Services, led by the Little School, Junior School and Senior School students, were each such poignant reminders of the value of joy, peace, love, faith and hope. The strength of our community is so dependent on the commitment of everyone, including our students, parents, faculty, staff and alumnae, to come together as one, whenever we can. I know that each time we do, I am reminded of how fortunate we are to have such a dedicated and thoughtful community. At a time when there are so many in the world who are struggling, it is even more important that we take the time to honour friends and family and do whatever we can to help those who are most vulnerable.
I know that the girls have been working very hard this term and I realize that their participation in each of these events, whether as a performer or even as a spectator, is in addition to the time they are already dedicating to their academics, as well as athletics or other interests, and it is very much appreciated. I also want to thank all of those parents, faculty and staff, who have given so much to support these activities. I know that it is often the work behind-the-scenes that goes unnoticed but is so important to making these events successful for our girls and for the whole community.
I hope that everyone has a restful and joyous holiday. I am very much looking forward to relaxing with family and friends and enjoying the beauty that surrounds us right here in Vancouver. I am also looking forward to an exciting 2016 as we introduce our YHS 2030 Strategic Directions to the wider community. I hope that you will be excited by what we have to share in the New Year. In the meantime, enjoy the holidays and I will see you in 2016!
Warmly,
Chantal Gionet
Head of School