Oct. 28, 2016

Someone who understood the value of sharing gifts was Bernadette Blum, affectionately known as “Ms. Bernadette,” the Director of the River Park Nursery School. Early last summer, we sadly learned that Bernadette passed away, shortly after her announced retirement at age 75. For two decades, Bernadette worked with children and their parents at her preschool on Capitol Hill. To children, Ms. Bernadette was their loving, thoughtful teacher; to parents, she was their valued parenting coach.

Bernadette knew that the essentials of a pre-school program should focus on social skills, building healthy friendships, and understanding our emotions. Reading skills, STEM programs, and technological devices could wait for a more appropriate time. Bernadette took the placement of her students seriously, and she studied the programs at area kindergartens. I always looked forward to my conversations with Bernadette when we crossed paths at admissions functions. She advised many families to visit us, and as a direct result, our enrollment from Capitol Hill grew dramatically.

 

Recently I was reminded of the power of a gift, especially when it is not anticipated. Known for her generous spirit, Bernadette was also remarkably frugal. Last week, FCS received checks totaling $100,000 from Bernadette’s estate, a gift for the elementary school that most shared her vision for children and education. Bernadette was forward-looking and understood the importance of a vision for education and resources to support that program. In addition to planning a commemoration of Bernadette’s legacy at FCS, we plan to treat her amazing gift like endowment, enabling current and future generations of FCS students to benefit from the kindness and generosity of Bernadette Blum.

 

In Peace,

Larry