March 3, 2022

Dear McKinley Family,

This week I introduced our new PurposeFull Practice: Perseverance; however, my lesson centered more around our fantastic-elastic brains, taking care of our brains and bodies, and the difference between having a Growth Mindset vs a Fixed Mindset. I added in this pre-lesson, as it is one of my favorite topics to teach because it not only sets our children up to persevere successfully, it is based on science. Once children know that challenges actually grow their brains and mistakes are awesome learning opportunities; they can have a transformative mind shift. With all honesty, I wish I had known this in kindergarten.

So, what is the difference between having a Growth and Fixed Mindset? You may know a person who is really smart, but not successful in life. I would bet they have a Fixed Mindset -they avoid challenges, give up easily, are perfectionistic, and fear making mistakes. You may also know somebody who had to work really hard to achieve things and were never at the top of their class; however, they somehow achieved success in both work and life. Likely, this person was blessed with, or developed a, Growth Mindset- they are curious, love challenges, have a “can do” attitude, look for strategies when they face obstacles, embrace mistakes as learning opportunities, and know the Power of Yet.

Directly Below- I have purposefully included a wonderful TED Talk (for ADULTS) featuring a leader in the field of Growth Mindsets- Carol Dweck. This is a great place to educate yourself (if you aren't yet familiar with the concept); and thereafter, explore and discuss the fun and engaging resources I have included.

Wishing you well today and always.

Warmly and gratefully yours,

Mrs. O (Ormachea)

McKinley School Counselor

tormachea@gusd.org

530-632-6687

In this TED Talk, you will meet Carol Dweck who researches the “growth mindset” — the idea that we can grow our brain's capacity to learn and to solve problems. In this talk, she describes two ways to think about a problem that’s slightly too hard for you to solve. Are you not smart enough to solve it … or have you just not solved it yet?

Ms. Dweck has spent years studying this topic and has impressive outcomes that support her assertions that having a growth mindset can change the way we think; thereby propelling us towards personal and academic successes. I would also assert that having a growth mindset helps us to persevere through the challenges of life and education. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J-swZaKN2Ic

In this short video students learn about their incredible brains. They come to understand that taking on challenges can grow and strengthen their brains; thus, (with effort and the right mindset) they have the power to make their brains stronger every day.

***You Don't Want to Miss This***

FREE Art Supplies and Activity Ideas

When Sat, March 12, 12pm – 1pm

Where Butte County Library, Gridley Branch, 299 Spruce St, Gridley, CA 95948, USA (map)- Community Resource Room; Gridley

Description Come get basic art supplies (paint, glue, paper, and more), activity ideas, and a premade resource kits. Open to all; no registration required. Families welcome. Community Resource Room at Butte County Library, Gridley Branch Parking Lot

SUBJECT TO CANCELLATION DUE TO RAIN