Day 1255: Cassadaga Expansion

Quest is growing again.  Tonight, when we arrived in Cassadaga to do a presentation for the school board, we were warmly welcomed by the district superintendent.  Two of his step children had participated years ago and so he was already sold on the program.  He asked how many students were participating from the other schools.  One from Brocton and four from Silver Creek.  Well, he said, I'm hoping for twenty-five or thirty!  His high hopes are encouraging, but I don't think he realizes how terrified kids are of peeing in the woods.  After just a short talk, the board decided to vote tonight.  They don't mess around!

It's both exciting and a bit terrifying to add another layer of complexity to the program. It's more parent meetings, more logistical arrangements, more scheduling conflicts, more medical issues, more instructional days.  But, it's also more community ties, new friendships, leadership opportunities, increased appreciation and stewardship of our environment.  So many positive outcomes are possible.  Oh, but so many responsibilities and so much time!

Will new leaders ever emerge from the veterans or new recruits?  Unknown, but we'll keep trying.  Kelly is very eager and full of ideas.  Her level of commitment is needed in Brocton to energize the program or we will have to cut their eighth graders and keep their awesome student leaders.   Can we hang on till number 30?  It's a year by year decision.  Stay tuned!

Back deck bedazzled!