Circle of Giving
OUR CIRCLE OF GIVING, 2024 - 25
Dear Bridgeview Montessori Families, Friends, Alumni and Faculty, October 2024
With enduring respect and true pleasure, I write this letter to share that this year’s Circle of Giving annual fund drive is dedicated in the name of our beloved Head of School, Sandra Nickerson, who will be stepping down at the end of the 2024-2025 school year.
After the Board honored my request to write this letter, my musings began.
Should I tell you about the many times when Sandy asks, “Can I talk to you in my office?”
From serious concerns to logistical details, often punctuated with laughter and occasionally tears, Sandy models authenticity, honestly speaking her mind with empathy. She has made me a better educator, learner, colleague, and friend. She reminds me that I am human.
A Note from a Board Member:
Dear Bridgeview Community,
Every year the school reaches out with a request for their annual fund. It also appears, at times, there is some confusion around the purpose of this drive. As a parent of three children at the school and the current school treasurer, I thought it might be a good idea to write a few words regarding how important this drive is.
As a non-profit we are required to spend every dollar that we bring in through tuition. I can assure you that we stretch the most out of every one of our tuition dollars. However, these funds do not come close to meeting the capital needs of the school. While the school is in a very healthy financial position, we need to make sure it stays that way. Not dipping into reserves other than for emergencies allows us to do this. Every dollar that is raised from the annual fund gets spent on the school THAT year. It doesn't go in reserve and it isn't used for the operation expenses. These monies have gone toward things like fixing the science room wall, adding a generator, mitigating the flooding of the blue room, new phone system, new carpets, improved parking lot, new roof, and many other projects.
We are not a school that asks for donations at every turn. We discuss this often as a board. This makes that annual fund all that more critical.
Thank you so much for your support and please do not hesitate to reach out with questions.
Tom Farmer, Parent & Board Treasurer
Should I reprint the numerous cards she has written me over the years reminding me where my strengths lie and highlighting important achievements?
Sandy is in awe of us and is the first to sing our praises.
Should I write about the summer when the budget was so tight that we gave up air conditioning so as not to amend student programming?
By the way, Sandy and I are not graceful sweaters.
Should I relay how masterful she is when working with a small group of students who are experiencing the growing pains that come with intimate friendships?
I think “girl drama” might be her specialty, but our “rough and tumble” boys are also met with Sandy’s wisdom.
Should I explain how almost every time I give a tour to a prospective family, I talk about working for a Head of School who is also an artist?
I explain that having a creative visionary at the helm flavors our entire culture. Because of Sandy, we are more creative, autonomous, risk-taking, authentic, enthusiastic, and dedicated. Sandy is these things; they are intrinsic.
Please join me in celebrating Sandy by donating to the 2024 - 2025 Circle of Giving.
Oh, and to be clear, Sandy does not get the cash; funds raised directly support the operating budget and thus our students, your children. I know that I will personally be doubling my contribution, knowing in my heart that I have done something special to recognize my muse and Bridgeview’s fearless leader, Sandy, who loves and embodies Bridgeview Montessori from her colorful wingtips to her sparkle-studded spectacles.
Let’s make this year’s annual fund our best in Sandy’s tenure which means our best EVER. Current families, board, and faculty, let’s reach that Herculean 100% participation. No gift is too small. Alumni and Friends of the School, please consider your contribution a way to underscore Sandy’s legacy. For Sandy, let’s do our very best work.
Feeling Grateful,
Suzanne Lawson, Assistant Head of School
You may also donate by submitting cash or check made payable to Bridgeview Montessori School to Suzanne Lawson, Assistant Head of School. Thank you.
Monetary donations are tax-deductible. Your company may match any gifts you contribute to our school— ask your HR professional for details. Gifts-in-kind such as computer equipment, property, physical fitness equipment, etc., are welcome.
Spiral Illustration: Sandy Nickerson