In Full Swing

What a cool, comfortable fall morning we are having!  I love it; I think it signals all those things we associate with the school year being under full swing.  The introductions are over and we are in our groove!  Sports are beginning their competition seasons, student groups are meeting after school, and students are reminding the staff what color class we are starting with each morning! 

Our 8th grade is also firmly establishing themselves as the leaders of our school.  I had the honor to join them last Friday in the afternoon at Shawnee Mission Park for Leadership Day.  I heard about the challenging morning they had as they fumbled through activities that forced them to communicate and have patience with each other.  This Thursday during assembly our 8th grade will share some of their insights with the rest of the student body and then spend the semester looking for opportunities to recognize 6th and 7th grade students who are showcasing Scholarship, Integrity and Compassion.

Often as I was getting acquainted with PHS I would hear others tell me that they witness quite a bit of collaboration and students supporting each other.  I was able to see that in action this week during an advisory competition.  Senora Araiza's group figured out how to flip their table cloth over rather quickly and when Senora Wolfe's class learned of their success, they quickly asked for help.  Araiza's advisory responded with excitement at the chance to help their fellow students and immediately rushed over to share their strategy!

The table cloth activity also allowed some leaders to emerge.  Students would often begin the activity all talking at once and working against each other.  But as they began to feel frustration, one or two voices would call out to the group to listen and to all try the same strategy.  Group work, though challenging, is an essential part of a student's educational experience - and it should be.  As school reform continues to be a hot topic, employers are often asked what skills they would like to see new employees bring to the table.  Over and over again, employers stress soft skills such as cooperation, problem-solving and communication skills. 

While we know that students can always use more practice in leadership and communication skills, it can be helpful to assess the other social/emotional and academic needs of our students.  Last week I invited you to respond to a needs assessment survey.  I also asked staff and students for their input.  Below is a link to a summary of the results.  This information will be used to guide the curriculum and counseling opportunities provided to students for the next couple of years at Pembroke Hill.  I plan to conduct the assessment again in 2-3 years to stay on top of any changing needs.  Though this particular opportunity to provide your opinions has passed, I am always just a phone call or email away!
Needs Assessment Results

Additionally, I wanted to provide you with the link to the presentation by Dr. Stephen Lassen here at PHS last Wednesday afternoon.  He spoke on the recovery process for children/adolescents and parents after a traumatic event. 
Trauma Presentation