March 12, 2011
During a parent education seminar last week, parents and I explored 1) the behavioral contexts in which perseverance emerges and 2) the mindsets necessary to actually persevere when the task is difficult. The following recaps the first half of our discussion, and next month’s blog will focus on creating and defining the mindset needed in order to persevere in the face of an especially daunting or challenging task.
Posted in Head of School, Leadership
January 7, 2011
Happy 2011 to everyone, and welcome back. Inevitably, each new year brings with it a time to reflect on the year before. I considered the progress our school has made over the past year and was pleased to think back on the achievements we’ve made with the support of our community. There is one program in particular that has garnered much support and interest over the past few years, and I wanted to share a report on its progress thus far – our Differentiated Instruction program.
Posted in Head of School
December 3, 2010
For the first time, SFDS observed two non-school days dedicated to faculty professional development, prior to our Thanksgiving break. This was significant because while I often hear teachers ask for thoughtful feedback on their teaching, they are always reluctant to take time away from the students. Carving time out of the school year for professional development requires careful thought and planning.
Posted in Head of School
October 8, 2010
Dr. Jones’ topic is developing culturally competent leadership skills for the 21st century. Consistent with SFDS’ commitment to diversity, Dr. Jones’ theoretical framework and interactive exercises will teach us (and our children) how to respect and value all members of our community, and thereby enable all of us to “bring our whole selves to school,” unleashing the talent and critical thinking within our community.
Posted in Head of School
September 4, 2010
Welcome back to School. The optimistic energy that surged through the school on Wednesday is such a treasure. The opportunity to be working in a community dedicated to providing for children in a deep and meaningful way should continually be acknowledged, appreciated and relished.
Posted in Head of School, Leadership
September 4, 2010
We all have many opportunities to share our enthusiasm about our children’s education. As these opportunities arise at civic or social events/organizations, neighborhood associations, or your child’s former preschool kindergarten information event, we hope you will be willing to share your SFDS experiences. Feel free to stop by the admission office for information you can take to share with these groups.
Posted in Administrative Team
September 4, 2010
What do financials, The Little Engine That Could and school menus all have in common? All were topics of discussion at the San Francisco Day School annual “State of the School” dinner, where over 170 parents, faculty and board members all gathered to share SFDS updates and plans for the upcoming year.
Posted in Administrative Team, Leadership, Strategic Plan
September 4, 2010
Faithful readers of this blog will recall that June’s posting, the last one of the year, recounted the tremendous energy and commitment to professional development that was in the works for our teachers during the summer. Thirty-five teachers were scheduled to attend conferences and workshops all over the country. In addition, virtually every teacher in every grade and subject arranged work with Day School colleagues or local experts to expand and refine their curriculum and teaching practices.
Posted in Administrative Team, Leadership
