A Note to The ‘Dads’

Sometimes we get caught up in the little things and lose sight of what is really important. This past weekend saw the death of a really good man and a valued member of our community. Dan Yardley was the father of three North Cross students and the loving husband of Kelsey, and he will be missed by all. 

I did not know Dan that well. He was one of my carpool buddies, people I only see occasionally at drop-off. But I have been in independent schools for a really long time and I know the type. In fact, guys like Dan allow me to enjoy my job. It is a well-known, but not appreciated, fact that our kids learn so much in school because they have parents like Dan, parents who make their children feel valued, capable, and loved. 
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In particular, dads or dad figures, play a huge role in making our school a special place. At my previous schools, we always had a Dads Club which tended to the needs of our fathers, albeit mostly on a social level. I regret not knowing Dan better, especially after learning that he, too, enjoyed watching the forest come alive early in the morning. I would like to offer a chance for our dads to get to know each other and for me to get to know them.
 
So let me provide appetizers and the first round at Frankie Rowland’s at 5:30pm on Tuesday, December 12. I will send out reminders, but think of this as a great opportunity to find out who else likes to watch the forest come alive. Or, more practically, a December 12 event will provide you an opportunity to share gift ideas for your spouse so that you stay away from the dreaded “dual bag vacuum cleaner.”
 
Mark your calendars and look for further information.
Thanks and hug your kids.
Christian Proctor, PhD
Head of School