Our Priorities

The mental health challenges facing our nation are increasingly affecting our youth, emphasizing the urgent need for supportive environments in schools. In smaller classes, students benefit from personalized attention, fostering an environment where they feel genuinely seen, heard, and appreciated for their individual strengths and talents. This sense of recognition and value can profoundly impact their emotional well-being, contributing to a positive school experience and supporting their overall mental health.

As you read this, you are trying to block out the noises in your environment. This could be the AC or fan running, children playing in the background, or a coworker typing away on their computer. Your brain is working hard to block out those sounds so that you can focus on what you are reading. When you are hiking on a trail, your brain is doing the exact opposite. It is trying to pay close attention to each and every sound, from crickets in the grass to birds in the trees. This is a breath of fresh air for your busy brain! Living in an info-rich world, it is imperative that our students grow up with strategies to reduce mental fatigue and increase focus and attention restoration. 

The future requires individuals with creative minds capable of tackling challenges we haven't yet encountered. Play, with its element of risk, encourages the evolution of rules, fosters personal determination, and embraces uncertain outcomes. It not only boosts confidence and initiative but also cultivates essential skills vital for the future.

There is no doubt that technology has benefited our society, from health to education. It is imperative however that students have the creativity to expand on all of the technological inventions. In addition, they need to have real life experiences to feel genuine success. A fun example of this is my experience with Wii Sports. When we got the game console, I loved playing the bowling game. I really became an expert at it. I begged my family to go play a real game of bowling to show off my new skills. Let’s just say the skills did not transfer to the real game. Technology is a great tool, but we all benefit from real experiences.

Learning Spanish offers a multitude of benefits for the future. As one of the most widely spoken languages globally, speaking Spanish opens doors to diverse opportunities in various fields. In an increasingly interconnected world, bilingualism is an incredible asset, enhancing communication skills and cultural understanding.

By learning about our community, students develop a deeper sense of belonging and civic responsibility. They gain insight into local issues, challenges, and resources, empowering them to become active participants in shaping their surroundings for the better. Moreover, community-curated experiences foster empathy, collaboration, and leadership skills, essential for success in future endeavors.