Notes from Dr. Irvin
Your WGHS Weekly eNews for November 9
Hello WGHS Families,
I have recently connected with a book called Deeper Learning, written by researchers Jal Mehta and Sarah Fine, in which they conducted observations and interviews of students and staff over six years from purportedly successful innovative high schools that were suggested as “leaders” in preparing students for the demands of twenty-first century life.
Sadly, they noted most students experienced lack of engagement, and “bored, disengaged compliance” during their day. However, in these recommended model schools, pockets of vibrant learning settings and a “hidden curriculum” in extra-curricular and electives that allowed students to do deep learning and rise above the norm with intellectually dynamic experiences. Mehta and Fine observed “…we stumbled into spaces that initially lay outside of our study—art classes, debate club meetings, newspaper, Model UN, athletic practices—these same students looked and sounded totally different. In these spaces, they were actively engaged and eagerly assuming roles as leaders.” Yesterday we celebrated multiple student-athletes who signed their letter of intent and will open Neil Simon’s Rumors on stage later this month. We know we are only sharing a chapter in their growth and development as scholars and performers in their realm. My belief is that these students have had exposure to an alchemy that will serve them well--we are as optimistic as we are proud.
Last weekend, I attended the Webster Groves Wall of Fame induction program, where our most honored alum spoke of their transformative experiences in the classroom and in the co-curricular realms.
A parent previously shared their impression of their child’s experience at the end of four years in a fall activity. They shared their appreciation of the program and its leader’s intentionality in the development of participants’ character and creating a belonging, inclusive community. I am hopeful that this thoughtful note is representative of many extracurricular settings that act as additional well-designed learning environments for our students. Additionally, we are adding an event where we will feature our curricular and activity opportunities for prospective students in early December. Cheers to all that participate, mentor, and support "the show" with a gaze that moves from the immediacy of the scoreboard to the promise of the horizon.
Regards,
Matt Irvin
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