Mrs. Hartwell and
the Faculty Look Ahead to 2011-2012
On Thursday, September 1st, Head of School Janet
Hartwell addressed the faculty in an opening meeting, setting themes for the
2011-2012 school year. She cited a
study done by a group of college presidents and independent school heads intent
on preparing students for life in this new century.
“The study says that our students will need to be equipped
with what appears to be an entirely new set of skills and capacities,” she said.
“The committee drafted a list of ‘demonstrations of learning’ that includes abilities
such as conducting a fluent conversation in a foreign language about a piece
of writing in that language and assessing
media coverage of a global event from various cultural/national perspectives.”
Mrs. Hartwell compared the list of new skills and
capabilities to the seven essential skills for the 21st century that
Tony Wagner puts forth in his book, The Global Achievement Gap. “I admit I am a fan of Tony Wagner,” she said, “and
I recognize that some of his research and conclusions are based on public
schools, often failing public schools, but nevertheless,
he is someone whose life and work is centered on thinking about and studying
education. I believe he has some deep and relevant insights when he tells us
that students have to master skills such as critical thinking and problem
solving, collaboration across networks and leading by influence.”
Mrs. Hartwell went on to cite the ability to ask good
questions as a key skill, but in addition, the ability to analyze and
synthesize the information gleaned, and furthermore to be able to formulate a
position based upon the information and develop thoughtful arguments in its
defense.
“We need to address the mindset of today’s student,” Mrs.
Hartwell said. “They are more
collaborative, open and accustomed to accessing information digitally 24/7.” In summary, Mrs. Hartwell said in light
of the “essential” new skills and capabilities called for in our global world,
the school will look carefully at the balance between teaching skills and
content, and also investigate possible ways to assess the acquiring of these
new skills.
Back-to-School Dates
Tuesday, Sept 6
Welcome back to school
Wednesday, Sept 7
Convocation
Friday, Sept 9
PA Barbecue
Thursday, Sept 22
PA Meeting
Thursday, Sept 29
School Closed for Rosh Hashanah