Rooted in Tradition: Bradner's School-Community Bond

One month into my retirement, I accepted a short-term position at Bradner Elementary. I did not know what to expect from a small country school. After being here for five months, I've been warmly accepted by the staff, I know almost all of the 95 students by name, I have gotten used to the spontaneous "moos" from cows fenced alongside the playground and the wafting smells from mushroom farms, cow pastures, or chicken farms, depending on which way the wind is blowing.  

What I did not expect is how steeped in tradition and deeply-rooted the historical ties between Bradner Elementary and the Bradner Community are. From community events to fundraising partnerships, the bond between Bradner Elementary and the Bradner Community is strong and enduring.

Flowers and gardening are an integral part of the community. The Bradner Garden Society donates funds to the school to support a student gardening club.  Students plant bulbs around the school that will be in bloom for Bradner's Annual Flower Show on April 11th, 12th, and 13th. Bradner's Flower Show was first held in 1928 and has grown into a famous annual tourist attraction, drawing thousands to enjoy over 400 varieties of daffodils and artistic floral displays. The coordinator of the show attended Bradner, as did her children and grandchildren, who currently attend. Bradner students will create art to be displayed at the show, the choir will sing, and all classes will visit the exhibitions.  

Another important community event intertwined with the school is the May Day Parade and Country Fair. The Bradner PAC is deeply involved in preparations and will be hosting the 105th annual May Day on May 24th. Activities will take place in and around Bradner Elementary School and Bradner Hall. Starting in April, students in grades 2 to 5 have the opportunity to learn the traditional Maypole dance and perform it, along with past Bradner students, during the event. Students in the after-school Bulldog Baking Club will bake treats for the May Day event. Mayday provides valuable community connections as well as being a significant fundraising event for the school.

By participating in these community-driven projects, students learn the value of teamwork, responsibility, and giving back to their community. The connection between Bradner Elementary staff and families to the Bradner Community brings valuable experiences and benefits to our school and students. I am thankful for the experience of being part of a small school community for the past five months and I look forward to visiting the upcoming Flower Show and Mayday Parade and Country Fair as a visitor and retired person.

Lori Whitman, Principal