​Hello Green Bear Families,

​It is hard to believe it is August and our first day of school is right around the corner! I am looking forward to seeing your Green Bears on Monday, August 18 for Open House (Last Names A-J: 5:30-6:15 pm & Last Names K-Z: 6:15-7:00 pm).

As we head into the weekend, I would like to share some personal thoughts. Many of you know that I have been back in-person at school since the first of June, working behind the scenes to prepare for the year ahead. While I am looking forward to fully reconnecting with our students and families, I am also returning to school this fall carrying a deep personal loss.

In February, our daughter Charley passed away after a courageous battle with Acute Myeloid Leukemia. She was 21 years old. My family is slowly adjusting to life without her physical presence. We are forever changed.

I share this with you because I believe in transparency, connection, and the strength of this school community. I want you to know that although I am returning as someone changed by this loss, I remain deeply committed to our students, staff, and families. I am still learning what it looks like to show up each day while balancing grief with hope, and I appreciate your grace and understanding.

You may hear me speak about Charley, or you may notice moments when I seem more quiet or reflective than usual. Her memory is something I hold close, and speaking about her helps me honor that connection.

Please don’t hesitate to share your family’s stories and happy moments, especially about your children. Seeing our Green Bears grow and thrive is one of the greatest joys of my work. Your family’s happiness will not make my grief any heavier; rather, it reminds me of the love and hope that surrounds us.

I would also like to gently mention that while I know many people wish to offer comfort, phrases like “she’s in a better place” or “this is part of a bigger plan” can be difficult for me to hear right now. I know they come from a place of care, but I simply see her death as a tragedy, and it is my opinion that the best place for Charley was here with me. 

As I continue settling into the rhythm of the school year, I ask for your continued support and patience. I may need moments of understanding along the way, but I promise that I remain wholeheartedly dedicated to my work, to your children, and to this school we all love.

Thank you for being a part of our caring and compassionate community.

With gratitude and warmth,

-Dr. Bauer