Center School Message from the Principal 4/2/26
I hope this message finds you and your families well. It is with a mixture of gratitude and reflection that I share my decision to retire at the end of this school year. Serving as principal of Center School has been one of the greatest honors of my life. Since 1986, I have had the privilege of working alongside dedicated educators, supportive families, and, most importantly, inspiring students who make our school such a special place.
Together, we have celebrated many achievements, navigated challenges, and built a strong, caring environment where students can learn, grow, and become the best STAR students they can be (respectful, responsible, and safe). I am deeply proud of all that we have accomplished as a community, and I am confident that the school will continue to thrive in the years ahead.
For many years, I would welcome incoming Kindergartners and their families or send off our fourth graders and their parents with this poem. The words are still meaningful and ring true today. This message is meant for all of the families and students who have graced the halls of Center School between 1986 and 2026.
All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten
Most of what I really need to know about how to live, what to do, and how to be, I learned in Kindergarten. Wisdom was not at the top of the graduate school mountain, but there in the sandpile at Center School. These are the things I learned:
Share everything.
Play fair.
Don't hit people.
Put things back where you found them
Clean up your own mess.
Don't take things that aren't yours.
Say you're sorry when you hurt somebody.
Wash your hands before you eat.
Flush.
Warm cookies and cold milk are good for you.
Live a balanced life-learn some and think some and draw and paint and sing and dance and play and work everyday some.
Take a nap every afternoon.
When you go out into the world, watch out for traffic, hold hands and stick together.
Be aware of wonder.
Robert Fulghum
While I look forward to the next chapter of my life, I will truly miss the daily interactions with students, staff, and families. The relationships and memories I have made here will always hold a special place in my heart. Thank you for your continued support, trust, and partnership. It has been a privilege to serve you and your children.
With sincere appreciation,
Jane DeGrenier
Principal