After 30 years of service as a teacher and Director of The Presbyterian Church at New Providence Preschool and Kindergarten, Jeanne Ross has decided to retire. Working anywhere for 30 years is uncommon, but Jeanne has been steadfast in her service as Director and has touched many children and their families.
She began as a Nursery school teacher for ten years and when the opportunity became available to become the Director she gladly accepted the position. Jeanne has seen many changes not only in the school but in the New Providence community, but her philosophy has stayed the same “provide a Christian environment that is nurturing, loving, and encouraging for children”. Her commitment to excellence in the curriculum has been a testament to the school but she believes the most important aspect is having the right people in place to fulfill this philosophy.
Her advice to parents as she leaves is simple “be present”. In her last newsletter at the school she wrote this, “When we are present, we are paying undistracted attention, we are listening, we are affirming that someone is more important than our schedule and playlist for the day. We are giving space for joys, for sorrows, for playing, for praying, for navigating hard topics, for answering questions about who God is, for sharing successes, and failures, for wiping away tears, for laughter, for hugging and holding, for sharing our childhood stories, for grace and forgiveness, for taking actions that will bring health and happiness, for authentic relationship.” Jeanne is ready to start new adventures with her husband who is also retired, and to spend more time with her grandchildren. They are expecting their fifth grandchild. She wants to ensure she is “present” now for her grandchildren.
Jeanne stated “It has been a gift to be part of The Presbyterian Church at New Providence Preschool and its church family, Thank you, thank you, thank you!” Maury Fryer will be her successor and has been working at the school in the 2’s class for 29 years, a program that Maury created. Maury is excited for the opportunity and begins her new position in July. Jeanne’s advice to Maury is “be yourself” and to always ask this question “is this best for the children?”
(above) Nursery School Director, Jeanne Ross with children from The Presbyterian Church at New Providence Preschool.
