I hope you had a productive week. As we continue to foster the growth mindset in our students, we encourage you to change your language at home as well. The growth mindset helps students to understand that "smart" is not fixed and that success grows with effort and the work they do has value. So...instead of saying "you're so smart"...try saying "you worked really hard on that...or...you have such a positive attitude...or...I love how you took ownership of that...or...I can tell that you studied." To learn more about the growth mindset, watch Carol Dweck's TED Talk.
ATL & Executive Functioning
You have heard me talk about the Approaches to Learning (ATL) Skills as an important piece of your student's learning experience. They focus on Self-management, Collaboration, Reflection and Organization. We all know that these "soft skills" are important to their development. OPRF High School is also focusing on these soft skills through the avenue of Executive Functioning. They are hosting a workshop open to all; see workshop flyer for more details.
Spoken Word
Oak Park Education Foundation's newest free in-school program Spoken Word will be happening in 7th grade Language Arts classes at Brooks between Oct 26th-Nov 13th. We are really excited for this program that will foster creativity and self-expression in our students. Learn more details about the Spoken Word program. OPEF is also launching a Spoken Word Club open for all 6th-8th graders that will start in December.
Parent Conferences/Student Portfolios (10/22)
Student Portfolios are an important aspect of the student learning and reflection process. Students work with teachers to select artifacts that represent their learning experience. They are assessing themselves in ATL skills as well as learning to articulate their goals, strengths and areas for growth. This is great for developing speaking skills. In order to make this a more fruitful experience, please refer to the email I sent that has guiding questions for you and your student.
Principal For a Day (10/23)
On Friday, State Representative Camille Lilly will spend the morning here at Brooks as Principal for a Day. Representative Lilly is an Oak Parker and attended my welcome reception.
Allow Me to Introduce...
Our wonderful Media Center Staff, Ms. Nelson and Ms. Keith.