Back-to-School Night

Thanks to all of you who came out to our back-to-school night earlier this week.  This is always one of my favorite nights of the year, when our parents get to step into the shoes of their children and spend a night as middle schoolers.  I heard a lot of positive feedback from our teachers about the great turnout we had and the positive relationships that they are starting to build with our families. 

As we mentioned in the state of the school address, Henley has a lot to be proud of—great teachers, motivated students, strong scores on state tests, and an active group of parents who provide a great deal of support wherever it’s needed.  We have worked hard to create an atmosphere that is conducive to learning and that allows for high levels of engagement and positive experiences for our students. 

I spoke last night about some of the goals that we have for this school year.  One is to “embrace the shake.”  A motto we have borrowed from artist Phil Hansen who has encouraged us to look at any limitations that students have as opportunities to be creative instead of as things that hold them back.  A couple of video clips that will give you an idea of why we want to “embrace the shake” can be found here and here.

 

I am also very interested in our staff developing an understanding of Carol Dweck’s work around growth vs. fixed mindsets.  The more I learn about this, the more important I believe it is that we work deliberately as a school to develop growth mindsets in our students.  A very brief explanation of this concept can be found here.

  

I know that we’re going to have another great year at Henley.  I look forward to getting to know our new students and to continuing our work with those who are returning.