Hampton Bays Middle School
Monday Memo #27
Powerful Learning at HBMS this Week!
Let's keep sharing and celebrating the great things happening in our classrooms and school.
Happiness
Dear T.E.A.M. :
The last two weeks have brought me in close proximity with students and how they see their worlds. First, as a chaperone in Washington DC, I was fortunate to to establish (or in some cases, re-establish) relationships with students I've known for a long time. It was personally rewarding and it provided insight into what really matters to our students.
Then, last week, thanks to a group of seventh grade teachers, I felt welcomed into ten uniquely special learning spaces, where I was able to see life through the eyes of a 12 year-old. I am eternally grateful to those teachers who allowed me the opportunity to Shadow a Student, as part of a National Project where over 1300 school principals took part in this experience. I attempted to capture the experience in writing, as a way for me to process my own professional learning (below). I'd love to hear your thoughts, suggestions, or feedback - on this experience from your perspective.
One thing that resonated deeply with me is the level of kindness exhibited by the student who I shadowed, his classmates, and his teachers. In my honest conversations with students throughout the day and since the experience, I am challenged to be a better Principal.
But I can couldn't help but notice and appreciate how much care our teachers put into creating opportunities for our students to thrive in middle school. My heart was warmed by the level of happiness in each of the classroom spaces. In fact, it reminded me of an article I read last week, entitled, "Letting Happiness Flourish in the Classroom". If you haven't yet read it, here's the link: http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2016/03/09/happiness-in-the-classroom/ . The author, Jessica Lahey, is a teacher who writes regularly for the New York Times. Her pieces push my thinking, and in this case, I was reminded of the good work our teachers do every day.
Thanks for your dedication to our students and our middle school program. Let's work together to make this week great for our students!
Dennis