Saying Goodbye to Clare

Dear CCL Community,

It is with both sadness and deep appreciation that this week marks Clare Johnson’s last week at CCL. After 20 incredible years as a teacher, caregiver, and friend, Clare is ready to return home. Clare has been a constant source of warmth, creativity, and dedication, touching the lives of countless children, families, and colleagues.

Clare’s talents go far beyond her extraordinary ability to connect with children—she can quite literally make anything. Whether it’s a project idea, a classroom tool, or a magical creation out of a simple cardboard box, Clare has an uncanny ability to bring visions to life overnight. Knitting, carving, woodworking—her skills seem endless, and her willingness to share them has enriched our community in ways too numerous to count.

Having grown up in England and Scotland, Clare first came to America as an au pair at 19 years old. Now, with her own daughter having reached that same milestone, Clare has made the difficult decision to return home to Scotland to be with her family. Like many immigrants, she has built a chosen family here in the States, and so many of us at CCL have been lucky to be part of that.

What makes Clare truly remarkable is her unwavering determination and deep curiosity about children. She doesn’t just work with children—she seeks to understand them. She asks thoughtful, meaningful questions about their development, always striving to grow as an educator. Her co-teachers will miss her boundless energy, her warmth, and the way she made everyone feel welcome and supported.

During her tenure at CCL, Clare has faced incredible personal challenges, including battling cancer and severe Lyme disease. And yet, through it all, she has always, always shown up—with her determination, her spirit, and her unwavering commitment to the children and this community. Her resilience has been nothing short of inspiring, and we are so grateful for the strength and love she has poured into CCL.

Personally, I will deeply miss hearing Clare read and sing to the children. There is nothing better than listening to an English person read children’s literature—her voice brought stories to life in a way that captivated both children and adults alike.

Clare, there are no words to fully express how much you mean to this community. We will miss your laughter, kindness, and ability to make something special out of the simplest materials and moments. We are so grateful for the love, care, and creativity you have freely given CCL over the past two decades. While we are heartbroken to say goodbye, we send you off with all our love, support, and warmest wishes as you embark on this new chapter.

Scotland is lucky to have you back. And no matter where you are, you will always be part of the CCL family.

With love and gratitude,
Allegra