“Change is the only Constant”

                               -Heraclitus, Greek philosopher

As we get further and further away from our own preschool experience, we know the truth in this statement. The only thing we can consistently count on is that change will happen and is happening right now.

Sometimes change seems scary and we fear what may come next, but trying to stop it is an exercise in futility. Everything Changes. We’ve seen the same happen with preschool. 

Preschool used to be optional…

It used to be that preschool was optional. A social place for kids who were ready for a partial leap to school. Mostly a place to play and learn to be a part of a group. To learn how to follow directions and work out disagreements. For the most part, these social lessons are still big benefits of preschool that serve kids for years beyond their time in Kindergarten. 

…Now a Necessity

More recently, preschool has transitioned from an optional luxury to a necessity. A necessity that many kids need to start kindergarten on par with their peers. One they must do if they want a chance to keep up with everyone around them and to make sure the learning gap doesn’t take hold. A necessity to make sure learning and school has a chance to be a positive place to grow and thrive.

Change at Old Adobe School

Change is also happening at one of The Blue Rose Foundation’s partner preschools, Old Adobe School in Sonoma. After 9 years at OAS, Michaela Murray is stepping down as Director to be able to help her dad. She is the second director The Blue Rose Foundation has worked closely with at OAS since 2014 to bring scholarships and the opportunity to attend preschool to those who couldn’t otherwise attend. Michaela took the reins as Director in 2017 and has shepherded the school, families, and children who attended through some pretty challenging years (eh hem, do we remember what life was like pre-covid?) and OAS and its families have thrived under her leadership and guidance. 

TBRF has enjoyed a long and mutually supportive relationship with OAS throughout Michaela’s tenure. She has been an immense resource of on-the-ground preschool experience and knowledge. Michaela always enthusiastically jumped in to help TBRF get the word out about the importance of preschool for all children.  Time and again, and most recently, she shared stories and her experience as a preschool educator at our Party-4-Preschool last September in a way that brought to life just how important preschool is for those who don’t have much consistency in their young lives and for those children’s families, too.  

Although we will miss Michaela dearly, we are excited for OAS and their new director, Elizabeth Jones. Elizabeth was with Wondernook Preschool (previously, Kids Place of Marin) for 16 years as the director and then owner before it had to close due to the pandemic. Elizabeth chose OAS over several other schools because OAS has the similar feel to Wondernook and she loved the outdoor space.

Micheala and Elizabeth were kind enough to answer some of The Blue Rose Foundations’ questions about preschool, their experiences, and this new change for both of them.

TBRF: What is it about Preschool that makes it so important?

Michaela Murray: Preschool not only bridges the dramatic gap between early life and kindergarten, we make lifelong friends and develop social skills that last far beyond preschool. 

TBRF: What does OAS do that makes it so special?

MM: OAS see’s every child as they are and where they are.  We develop activities and cater to what each child’s needs are.  We  create a welcoming place for children to be exactly who they are.  

TBRF: What prompted this transition for you? 

MM: When my dad was diagnosed with dementia I found myself needing more flexibility in my work-life. It was the most difficult choice, but I didn’t want to not give 100% of my time and love to either my dad or OAS. Both deserve more of me than I could give.  

TBRF: Can you tell us a favorite memory from your time at OAS?

MM: There are too many to count.  My favorite parts have always been community involvement.  I’ve always loved when outside visitors come in.  My favorite was having multiple local farms bring in their baby chicks, lambs, and ponies.  The kids love it!  I’ve also fully enjoyed our yearly bike-a-thon.  Kids and parents love that event and so do I!

TBRF: Elizabeth, what are you most looking forward to at OAS?

Elizabeth Jones: I am looking forward to learning about the schools in Sonoma County and specifically the Sonoma Valley. I love the OAS outdoor space and I cannot wait to add my outdoor classroom expertise and help teachers be better teachers, supporting them in their educational journey.

TBRF: Is there anything you’ve noticed already that stands out as something that makes OAS so special in the world of preschools?

EJ: The outdoor space and the community are very special and the families are so incredibly supportive. 

TBRF: What is it about Preschool that makes it so important?

EJ: Preschool is the beginning of a child’s journey in education.  It is important for it to be fun, engaging, and include lots of social-emotional support.  

Welcome Elizabeth Jones, and thank you, Michaela Murray for your dedication and commitment to OAS, the preschool cause, and our community

We will miss Michaela, however we are excited to see what this newest “change” has in store. 

And stay tuned for a Blue Rose Foundation event “change” coming up next month. Hint-hint: Hipnic!