Now smiling, she laughs, “Well, that’s great! You do know I’m your Social Studies teacher though, right?”
It’s James’ turn to laugh, letting out a relieved sigh, “Yes. I just had to tell someone.” He’s now joined the ranks of those having experienced Verona’s most woeful tale.
With this being Academic Focus time, time to work alone or collaboratively through learning plans, some learners are finishing up Energy Audits. Others are considering and reconsidering a baffling Expanding Cube problem. The double classroom and Learning Commons are dynamic spaces right now; teachers are providing targeted support. Around James, across blended academic streams, students are determining Romeo and Juliet’s central themes, some utilizing the Shakespeare in Bits app, others skillfully rehearsing the heartbeat rhythm of iambic pentameter.
It’s all a reminder: we’re better together. Connection and community aren’t exclusive to our building; personalizing, connecting, and thriving are, though, central to the learning culture at Thirsk. Our communities, schools within the school, provide many opportunities for our learners. Rigorous interdisciplinary work isn’t (always) contained to one subject area. Students have supportive peers and adults they know meaningfully. Less isolated, with intentionality and flexibility, choices and new perspectives often surface.
Later, separately, James and Ms. Gale share with me the excitement of the day’s accomplishment. Yet again, I’m reminded of the privilege to teach and learn, celebrating successes and sharing challenges, as a member of this learning community.