Jacob’s Journal: August 21

A lot can be learned if you create the space and take the time to listen.  I am almost half way finished with my meetings with every HS staff member.  I must say that you are an eclectic and fascinating bunch.  It has been a treat hearing about your families, professional lives, hobbies, interests, and personal challenges to mention a few.  Moreover, I have a much stronger understanding of SSIS and particularly the HS division’s institutional memory.  This information is truly invaluable as we chart a course together this year.

We have spent time as a staff and leadership team discussing our work with “students of concern” and how we can truly have a positive impact with lives.  I believe we are on the right track with the systematic development of our grade level teams.  This will no doubt have a positive impact on our student body.  While I’m sure these grade level teams will yield positive rewards, I wonder if there is are other and more simplistic methods to ensure that our students do not slip through the cracks.

One story sticks out this week as I chatted with you all.  A student waited for nearly an hour in a classroom and completed work while the teacher helped a number of students after school.  The teacher asked the student what they could do to support them.  The student responded by saying that they just need a place to work.  Once the last student left, the teacher approached the student again and the truth finally started to emerge.  The student shared that they were completely lost and admitted they significant gaps in their knowledge.  The teacher responded with some reassurances and they started to target these gaps.  Our students have extremely high expectations of themselves and their parents even more so (some unrealistic).  Moreover, being a teenager is no easy task.  Building relationships and finding ways to connect with our students is critical in their growth.

I wonder what we all can learn from our students when we create the space and listen?

Have a great weekend.

Jacob