ONE YEAR LATER!
It is now the second to last day of school for our child's first year at Mid Pacific Institute. And what a wonderful year it has been! My son looks forward to each day at school, because there's always a new adventure. I can't believe one year has gone by since he was accepted and started the first grade at this exceptional school.
 |
First Day of School: Reassuring Words from Mrs. Hussey, Principal |
 |
Meeting New Friends |
Last year in public school, my son went on a total of two field trips. This year, he went on...I lost count! Such is the advantage of attending a private school versus public. DOE is limited by its funds for student field trips, so I can't fault them. But field trips is what my son really enjoys. From visiting/donating items to the Epipany Food Bank to visiting a nursing home, my son has been exposed to many different things he wouldn't have been, had he continued in public school. He finds great joy in learning.
As a parent, I've had the opportunity to volunteer for various projects in his classroom. This gives me a chance to meet other parents as well as my son's classmates. His classmates are bright, curious, energetic but also kind and compassionate. Being my child has ASD, there are times he's faced challenges, such as giving a speech in front of class, that's been very stressful. But with the nurturing and help from one of his older classmates, he was able to get through his speech. Several of his classmates watch out for him. They can see or sense when he's having difficulty or under duress, and they are there to help him. Without these little mentor-angels, my son wouldn't have done as well as he has. The kids at Mid-Pac are taught to be compassionate to their peers, to nurture, to assist, and to be kind. I have nothing but praises for this school and how they turn out not only bright, educated children, but compassionate and caring ones as well.

In addition, his teacher has been a godsend, guiding our son through his first year at Mid Pacific with a firm but gentle hand. Two weeks after he started Mid Pac, we could already see a change in our son. He was more considerate of others, opening doors for people and was more polite. He has matured considerably, and his concentration greatly improved. While there are still some social issues he has to work on, he is a completely different child from the one who attended public school. Having older children to mentor him has made a vast difference in his growth and maturity. Since my son is an only child, it helps to have older children around he can look up to, since he has no other siblings.
 |
Knights of the Order of the Owls!
MPI Inquiry: The Middle Ages |
 |
Faire Maidens and Gallant Knights of Grade 1-2 |
 |
Take that, Sir! Huzzah! |
 |
Medieval vs Modern |
 |
Lovely Medieval Ladies |
What was also enjoyable for parents were the Christmas pageant, the May Day Celebration, Jump Rope for Heart Day and other chances to see the children in action. There's such a joy in watching energetic kids performing songs or doing physical activities to raise money for charity. Their positive energy is soooo contagious and makes you feel good.
 |
TRICK OR TREAT!
MPI Spooktivity! Booooooo |
 |
Christmas Pageant |
 |
Helping Those In Need
Jump Rope for Heart |
 |
Hoolaulea |
 |
It's May Day! GO MPI!!!
May Day Celebration at MPI |
As the school year comes to an end, I can't help but feel great pride in my child's growth but also sadness that it has ended so quickly! In August he will be in second grade and mentoring his younger classmates. It has been a remarkable year and experience, and our family looks forward to more adventures this August.