Tag: GWMS

A Letter from Katie

March 6, 2014

Dear GWMS Parents and Guardians,

Today I am writing to share with you the personal news that I was recently diagnosed with a rare type of breast cancer. While this news is admittedly difficult and challenging, I am grateful to report that I am working with a wonderful team of outstanding medical professionals in Boston who specialize in my type of cancer and that treatment has already begun.

My doctors are completely aware and fully supportive of my intent to maintain my professional and personal commitments during treatment. They know that GWMS is a top priority for me and they are on board with my goal to travel from Boston to Ridgewood between chemotherapy treatments so that I can be present at school as much as possible.

As many of you know, another top priority is the upcoming adoption of my son from China this spring. My doctors and I are very optimistic that this trip will go forward as planned and that I will bring home a son in April.

I have full confidence that during my periodic absences our school’s excellent administrators and staff will continue to move the school forward and that there will be minimal disruption to our learning community. In addition, in anticipation of my trip to China, the Ridgewood Board of Education recently approved the hiring of an excellent interim principal, Gene Solomon — a seasoned educator, Ridgewood resident and former middle school principal in Upper Saddle River — who will be covering for me during my adoption leave.

Much as I have confidence in the GWMS staff, I am also certain that our students will be fine. I care deeply about our GWMS children and for that reason I am planning to speak to them today via video, to tell them about my diagnosis and treatment plan and to reassure them that everything will be fine. News of illness can be difficult and frightening for children and it is important that their fears and concerns are addressed.  I would encourage you to answer their questions with the same honesty and optimism that I share my news with you. In addition, our staff and professional counselors are always available to you and your children and can be reached by calling the main office.

At GWMS we continually stress the importance of respect, compassion and teamwork. These elements are the basis of a strong support system. Just as I am fortunate to have such a skilled and caring medical team managing my case and have complete confidence in their judgment and abilities, I am also grateful to have such a wonderful and compassionate body of staff, students, parents and guardians that make up the GWMS family.

These next several weeks will no doubt bring challenges and opportunities for learning those important lessons that go beyond the classroom.  I thank you in advance for your thoughts, prayers and respect for my privacy during this very personal time and I look forward to sharing good news in the near future.

Sincerely,

Dr. Katie Kashmanian, Principal