A Message From Mrs. O'Shaughnessy
As I am sitting here watching the coverage of the NYC marathon, I can't help but think of the training, the mindset, the stamina and the motivation that these runners have. They just spoke about hitting "the wall" around mile 19/mile 20. Ahh, the wall! We all have hit that one time or another, haven't we? The moment when you feel you can't go anymore. For these runners, their bodies may be giving out, and that is when their mind becomes the muscle that keeps them going.
Equating that to us, more specifically our students, it all comes down to mindset. That mindset that keeps us going when things are tough, seemingly impossible. For the runners, as they cross that finish line, only they know how much it means. Our students, when challenged have that same feeling. There is a distinct feeling of accomplishment when you struggled, and persevered on your own. I am a parent, and can recall a distinct time when my daughter struggled, and although I can adjust the environment around her, it was her who would have to do the heavy lifting.
My point in talking about this is to speak about not only growth mindset, but self-regulation and executive functioning. These are not abilities you are born with, but rather the ability to develop them. This is a major part of the work we all do in these elementary years. Here is a helpful link that describes this:
https://developingchild.harvard.edu/science/key-concepts/executive-function/
Learning is not just teaching students "how to do something", but motivating them to continue to question, to be curious, to problem solve, and to think critically. Just think, as adults, this is something that makes the difference as well. I often explain that there are no less than 100 tabs open in my brain at any time. Well, back to the marathon connection....My friends often tell me "Its a marathon Linda, not a sprint." So is the elementary process with your children. Each year compounds on another, and builds knowledge, self regulation and executive functioning. It doesn't happen overnight, but it will happen when conditions are present. That is what school and home work collaboratively to do.
This week we will celebrate our students for our first month of Core Value Awards. Students will be honored at the PTA meeting Thursday night as well as in school at the monthly assembly the following week. Families will be notified prior, but make it a point to attend this weeks meeting. Its a great time to be in the building, meet other families, and be part of the decision making process!
Have a great week!
