As I prepared to drive to my new post as assistant principal at St. Agnes School, I was surprised by two visitors at my door.

They didn’t knock or ring the bell, they just made themselves at home and walked in. My two golden doodle guard dogs performed circus-worthy leaps and attacked the intruders with sloppy kisses and turbulent tail wagging. I smiled suspiciously, looking at my parents walk toward me as I finished preparing my bag to head out.

They were two days early for our obligatory start of school photo op with my six children.

But my parents had not miscalculated. My parents were there for me. With tired eyes and grateful smiles, we stood together for a picture. My heart could hear 40 years’ worth of applause and cheers from the front row center as I got into my car to drive to work. Forty years’ worth of my life on a stage, always seeing their proud faces smiling back at me.

My parents have taught me a lifetime of lessons, but I realized that their lessons of support and encouragement will never expire. They have demonstrated such unwavering joy and unconditional love for me, so many single stitches of support over so many years, that I now have a tapestry around my heart and a calling to continue their legacy.

As we embark on the exciting journey of the 2023 school year, I am filled with optimism and hope for the bright future that lies ahead. Father John Yonkovig reminded our staff at St. Agnes School that our students, the young minds of today, are undeniably the light of the world. We must nurture and celebrate their potential, ensuring that their brilliance is never hidden.

In this pivotal time, I want to extend my heartfelt encouragement to the dedicated teachers, administration, and all privileged adults entrusted with the noble responsibility of guiding our youth. Each one of you holds the unique opportunity to speak truth into the lives of our future leaders. Your influence is profound. Every word matters.

Every day within our schools is a fresh canvas upon which we can paint a world of encouragement, joy, and safety for our children to learn and be themselves. It is within these halls of education that they discover their passions, hone their talents, and build the foundations of their character. As educators and mentors, you have the power to create an environment where every child feels valued, supported, and inspired.

Let us remember that our schools are not just places of academic learning but also sanctuaries of personal growth and development. It is here that the seeds of empathy, resilience, and creativity are sown, and we must nurture them into full bloom.

In the 2023 school year, let us pledge to cultivate an environment where our students can flourish, where their voices are heard, and their dreams are nurtured. Together, we can ensure that the future truly remains bright; a light shining on a hill.

Mom and Dad, for your vibrant pursuit of support and love, thanks for always being the very best cheerleaders and encouraging me to go out into the world to build others up.

I’m front row center and I’m already giving these students a standing ovation.

The future is bright.

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Vanessa Pillen lives in Saranac Lake and is the assistant principal at St. Agnes School in Lake Placid.