It is without question that educators overwhelmingly reported missing the ongoing, in-person social connections that occurred prior to the pandemic. With connections during the pandemic being mainly virtual, on the telephone, over email or at a distance outdoors for very brief periods of time, educators report being very intentional to find creative ways to maintain a sense of connectedness. Here at Palmer with a growing staff, here are some of the opportunities that we have provided for staff connection:

• • • Staff Monthly Lunch and Learns -Topics ranging from assessment, supporting diverse learners, project-based learning …to personal passions – art- claysculpting
    • Staff Pro D and Innovation Grants – focus has been on creating opportunities for connection across different departments – Jan Pro D – Focus: Restart – providing opportunities for people to connect through preferred wellness activities – cooking, yoga, nature walk, coloring
    • Staff contests – naming of the conference rooms, school scholarship raffle
    • Staff Music Dance Video - Palmer Tradition- this dance video is premiered during the opening of Palmer Spotlight/Open House