Hello Good People,
Is it possible to work hard, have fun, give and receive feedback, commit to getting better by adjusting our practices and persist in the hard parts of our work all at once?
Yes! Of course it is!
This formula defines our MSA and NHS approach. March often feels like a “nose to the grindstone” kind of month (without the literal, dangerous historical reference to knife grinders sharpening blades!). We are mid-stream on big projects and performances and teachers expect students to apply the skills they learned first semester in more independent ways. Taking big risks and making progress on hard tasks is much easier when community is strong and we insist on fun.
Today we insisted on the joy factor with both academic and arts teachers before we tackled action planning for school-wide study skills curriculum.
We hope both the students and families in our community weave in FUN to the hard work and high expectations of this long academic month. Yes, we can do hard things and grow in substantial ways. Smiling and laughing help us persist. Take care and shine a light on all the ways your creative young people have grown.
With care and affection,
Michelle Cortez