Mid-Year Growth Insights from Our School Leaders

The latest episode delves into the mid-year reflections and observations from the principals of a thriving educational institution. With the backdrop of completing mid-year report cards and wrapping up assessments, the leaders share fascinating insights into the academic, emotional, and spiritual growth of students at various school levels. Dr. Carrie Abood discusses the lower school's focus on leveraging data from NEWA and DIBELS assessments to enhance student learning and enrich their educational experience. Field trips, innovative teaching strategies, and creativity in learning form pivotal aspects of their growth strategy. Highlights include engaging projects like hot cocoa instructional writing, a visit from a local geologist, and unique endeavors like the SeaPerch challenge, fostering curiosity and problem-solving skills. Lois Blatchley shares the middle school's journey, emphasizing the transformative experience of sixth graders and the deepening of academic and spiritual conversations. With a focus on critical thinking skills, students navigate through engaging projects such as historical analysis and book club discussions. The culmination of efforts is evident in activities like a speech meet and science presentations. Upper school principal Jordan Heckelman discusses the rhetoric development stage, where students synthesize learning through initiatives like mock trials and leadership classes. Balancing academics with extracurricular activities, students explore their potential in a supportive environment. Spiritual growth remains a cornerstone, with students actively engaging in service and missions projects. The episode concludes with reflections on the holistic and community-focused approach of the school, celebrating student achievements and looking forward to continued growth and engagement in the upcoming semester.