Dear Friends of Fairhaven,
As the matriarch of the Four Butler Boys family, I was honored when I was asked by the Fairhaven School Donations Clerk to write this letter. Having three of my sons as Fairhaven alumni and one a current student, I certainly have thoughts about the role the unique education Fairhaven has afforded our family, yet I struggle with what to say. How do I convey the many gifts Fairhaven has given to us?
The words that I keep coming back to are chosen family and community. These are the backbone of the Fairhaven School experience. At a time in this country where people are more divided than ever, here we experience a coming together of like-minded people. Though we all come from diverse backgrounds, we share the same desires for our childrens’ future.
At Fairhaven, the freedom and personal accountability entrusted to our children here is exactly what fosters the soft skills young people need for the future. The time to develop one’s unique sense of self, the age-mixing, and engaging with changing technology are just a few examples.
As part of the Fairhaven School Assembly, we are able to engage in the process through Talkabouts, democratic policy meetings, and activities like plays, potlucks and drum circle. Over the years, I’ve developed many close friendships with the families of my sons’ friends and fellow students. Those relationships are a unique community-building part of this school.
I love getting the opportunity to meet new Fairhaven families! I always tell them to trust the process. A Fairhaven education is not always an easy one to sit with, and it’s certainly not linear. Coming together at these activities strengthens the entire community. The new families get to see the school in action, understanding more about the benefits of a Sudbury education. Trust me, the joy is palpable!
For 20 years, our family has been part of this wonderful school. I can say I am eternally grateful for the generosity of countless kind donations over the years. Without the help of the Tuition Assistance Fund, our children’s education would have been far different. We are all pulled in a million directions these days, and there is certainly no shortage of causes that need funding. Yet here I am, asking you to give generously to the Fairhaven School Tuition Assistance Fund.
Through your generous donations, the diversity of our community can continue. When we are able to include as many people who seek out a different type of educational environment for their children, we only serve to enrich not just Fairhaven, but the world at large.
So please, consider a financial contribution to the school today. The future depends on it.
Thank you for your kind generosity,
Kathleen Butler
