At Sandburg Middle School, we pride ourselves on fostering a nurturing and supportive environment for both our students and staff. One individual who embodies this spirit is Jae Lemeshewsky, affectionately known as Ms. L. As an Instructional Assistant who has been with Sandburg for a decade, Ms. L has developed a unique tradition that beautifully symbolizes what it means to become a Sandburg Panther.

Cultivating Growth and Nurturing Potential

Each summer, Ms. L undertakes a special mission: welcoming new Sandburg staff members to our community with a meaningful gesture. New arrivals receive a plant along with a heartfelt card from Ms. L. To her, this isn’t just a welcoming gift—it’s a metaphor for the journey our students and staff undertake together.

Ms. L believes that, much like plants, our students require love, attention, and patience to thrive. “Plants are like our students,” she explains. “They need care and nurturing to grow. By treating each other with kindness and respect, we set an example that helps our students flourish.”

A Symbol of Patience and Care

The tradition of gifting a plant carries deeper significance. Just as a plant needs a conducive environment to grow—sunlight, water, and care—so do our students need a supportive and encouraging atmosphere to reach their full potential. Ms. L’s approach highlights the importance of modeling these values, showing students that growth comes from a foundation of love and respect.

This thoughtful gesture aligns perfectly with the Sandburg philosophy of nurturing not just academic success but personal development. By cultivating relationships with care and attention, we create a thriving community where everyone can succeed.

A Touch of Good Luck

Along with the plant, Ms. L includes a $2 bill in the gift package. This token is not merely a piece of currency but a symbol of good luck and prosperity. These $2 bills have become a cherished part of Sandburg’s culture, often spotted around the school and within FCPS, where former Sandburg Panthers now serve as leaders. The tradition reflects the ongoing impact of Ms. L’s influence and the far-reaching effects of the nurturing environment she promotes.

Celebrating a Decade of Dedication

For ten years, Ms. L has been a cornerstone of Sandburg, exemplifying the values we hold dear. Her dedication to cultivating growth and supporting new staff members has left a lasting imprint on our school community. As we continue to welcome new Panthers each year, we carry forward the lessons learned from Ms. L’s tradition: to grow together, support one another, and always nurture our potential with patience and care.

In every plant given, every $2 bill shared, and every act of kindness, Ms. L reminds us of what it means to be part of the Sandburg family. It’s about fostering a culture where everyone—students, staff, and the entire community—can grow and thrive, just like the plants that Ms. L so lovingly tends.

Welcome to Sandburg, where we grow together and support each other every step of the way.