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| Halloween at the Lower School (click for more) |
- Adminstrators attended a recent EBISA symposium, where there was discussion about what classrooms will look like in 2020. While new technology was viewed as integral, there was just as much emphasis on collaboration and project-based learning, and on the need for play, varying intensity, and the cultivation of happiness. That said, BPC is thoughtfully piloting some implementations of new-ish instructional technology.
- Maureen Ray is thrilled with her new “document camera and projection device” (elmo).
- A digital wall display (a mimeo smartboard) is a popular addition to one upper school classroom.
- An enhanced Web Portal for families is coming, as well as some upgrades to backend systems.
Discussion about School Culture and Community
a parent opened the discussion with these remarks:
Being a strong and resilient community is a key element of BPC’s sustainability as an institution.
We are already a compassionate and mutually supportive community, evidenced not only by the 100+ parents who recently stepped up to support a member of our community in need, but by the countless ways we watch out for each other’s kids and each other.
Let's take a moment to reflect on obstacles and opportunities in our own ‘network of support’.
Let's take a moment to reflect on obstacles and opportunities in our own ‘network of support’.
Why is this important?
Admissions: BPC has to replace the 40+ families that graduate or move on each year. Prospective parents indicate that they consider BPC’s laid-back sociability and inclusiveness as a strong positive. And we compete with schools like Berkwood Hedge and Windrush that also consider their community to be a valuable asset.
So what can we do to nurture and build on what is already happening?
What can we do as a “Circle of Parents” to promote a civil, civic, kind and mutually supportive community, among the kids, but also within our parent body and within the school community as a whole?
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| 6th Grade Headlands Trip |
Parents chimed in with suggestions:
The new monthly coffees hosted by Families Make a Difference (starting Nov 19th)
A physical and/or virtual bulletin board, where folks can communicate that they're looking for something, or have something they don't need (size 9 cleats, carseats, 30 lemons from their tree, tickets they can't use)
The class potlucks and camping trips
A pavillion at the Picnic displaying what groups like Families Make a Difference and the Diversity Committee do. Or maybe some of those folks would wear big buttons: "Ask me about FMD!"
4th grade has a tradition of inviting the class ice skating
The 1st grade held a triple birthday party in late August, and seven 1st graders joined a soccer league this Fall
That time before class assemblies: A proposal to invite parents to bring coffee and snacks to share for that 8:30-9am time on the yard
Proposal to start a book club reading some of the literature the Upper School is grappling with (Great Gatsby, Of Mice and Men). Indicate interest in the comments
What do you think? Leave a comment!
