On the field trip, the girls got to experiment as microbiologists and chemical engineers to see how we humans can—and can’t—clean up our wastewater, which is eventually returned to the Puget Sound. We also toured the wastewater treatment plant and saw firsthand how trash, organics, and microbes are removed in the treatment process.

As a 1999 graduate of Forest Ridge, it has been a delight to join the faculty as the Business teacher at Forest Ridge. Teaching juniors and seniors, I am transported back to my own upper-class days at Forest Ridge.

One question that pops up frequently for any librarian working with parents is, “How do I encourage my child to read more?” We all know that reading benefits us intellectually and academically, but many parents struggle with how to encourage these behaviors at home. Some parents worry that, if they weren’t avid readers, they won’t be able to successfully encourage that behavior in their children.

It is easy for adults and teenagers alike to forget that we are human beings, but when we take the time and space to be more present, introspective, still and connected to our various relationships, we are better able to find a balance between being and doing. One of the best parts about teaching at Forest Ridge is sharing retreat experiences with my students and supporting them as they find sustainable ways to nurture their minds, bodies, and hearts.

Next week, students from the Mandarin language class and international students are organizing a Forest Ridge Lunar New Year Celebration. Our entire community of students, parents and faculty are invited to participate in a hands-on celebration of Lunar New Year traditions. Students will learn how to make Chinese dumplings, write in Chinese calligraphy, play chopstick games, and learn about the Chinese Zodiac.