Kurn Hattin Homes Staff Picks Apples in the Orchard: A Community Celebration
WESTMINSTER, Vt. – As summer gracefully bows out and the new academic year begins, Kurn Hattin Homes (KHH) is alive with anticipation and hope. This vibrant atmosphere is not only a reflection of the children who call KHH home but also of the dedicated staff who work tirelessly to create a nurturing environment. Recently, staff members took a break from their rigorous training to engage in a delightful apple-picking event in the orchard, symbolizing the spirit of community and shared experiences that define KHH.
A Season of Preparation
Before the children return to KHH for the new school year, the staff undergoes extensive training to ensure they are equipped to provide the best care and education possible. This year, each staff member completed a three-hour safety and awareness training program developed by KidSafe Collaborative and administered through the Vermont Agency of Human Services. This training is crucial in fostering a safe and supportive environment for the children.
Training Week 2024 was a comprehensive initiative dedicated to the professional development of both new and returning staff. During this week, teachers, counselors, residential staff, administrators, and other personnel gathered to review policies and procedures. They tackled challenging topics such as self-harm, bullying, vehicle protocol, updated technologies, and the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) program. PBIS is an essential framework that reinforces positive behavior, helping children understand the impact of their actions on others.
Building Community Through Collaboration
Training Week is not just about learning; it’s also an opportunity for staff members to bond and collaborate. By coming together from various departments, staff can share insights, build relationships, and gain a deeper understanding of each other’s roles. This sense of community is vital in creating a cohesive environment where everyone works towards a common goal: the well-being and growth of the children at KHH.
Mark Bodin, president of the Kurn Hattin Homes Board of Trustees, kicked off Training Week with an inspiring address. He posed a thought-provoking question: “What makes today the greatest day?” Bodin emphasized the limitless possibilities that come with the start of a new year and encouraged staff to strive for excellence in their roles. His message resonated deeply, reminding everyone of the profound impact they can have on the lives of the children they serve.
A Message of Responsibility and Hope
As Training Week came to a close, KHH executive director Steve Harrison shared a powerful message about the responsibility that comes with their roles. He emphasized the importance of modeling high standards of behavior, civility, and respect in a nurturing manner. “Let’s model it so that the children can understand it and repeat it,” Harrison urged, reinforcing the idea that staff behavior sets the tone for the children’s experiences at KHH.
A Joyful Apple-Picking Experience
Amidst the serious discussions and training sessions, the staff took time to enjoy a light-hearted apple-picking event in the orchard. This activity not only provided a break from the rigorous training but also fostered camaraderie among staff members. Picking apples together symbolized the fruits of their labor and the shared commitment to nurturing the children at KHH.
The orchard, bursting with ripe apples, served as a picturesque backdrop for laughter and connection. Staff members worked together, sharing stories and enjoying the simple pleasure of harvesting fruit that would later be shared with the children. This event highlighted the importance of community and collaboration, reinforcing the idea that everyone at KHH plays a vital role in creating a supportive environment.
Looking Ahead
As the new academic year approaches, the staff at Kurn Hattin Homes is filled with optimism and hope. The training they have undergone, coupled with the bonds they have strengthened, will undoubtedly contribute to a positive and enriching experience for the children. With a renewed sense of purpose and commitment, the KHH team is ready to welcome the children back to their campus, eager to provide them with the love, support, and guidance they need to thrive.
In the words of Mark Bodin, “How many people do you know who can go to work every day and know they can change someone’s life?” At Kurn Hattin Homes, the answer is clear: every staff member is dedicated to making a difference, one child at a time.