Stakeholder Blog Series (4 of 4) - Students are the reason that we are all here…

2017.9.29

Stakeholder Blog Series (4 of 4)

Students are the reason that we are all here…

“Outtakes”. A snippet of thoughts to kick off this blog post:

I saved the best for last - our kids. Our students learn more than just content in schools. Our job is to provide a well-rounded education that considers the whole child. Hopefully, the end product is smart, creative, adaptable, good people.

What I am looking forward to putting into practice, or continuing:

Continuing the focus on the whole-child and understanding, supporting, and fostering different personalities and learning styles (directly and through our staff).

Quote(s) that resonated with me this week:

Perspective means everything. Consider what others may see before judging their viewpoint.

This week's blog wraps up the four-week series on stakeholders in education. This has been exciting to think about because it factors in all of the moving parts that make an educational system operate. EdTechReview defines a stakeholder as follows:

“A stakeholder is anyone who is involved in the welfare and success of a school and its students, including administrators, teachers, staff, students, parents, community members, school board members, city councilors and state representatives”. ( EdTechReview)

Throughout this series, we focused on four specific groups of stakeholders: parents, community, faculty and staff, and of course, our biggest asset, students. As an educator as well as a parent of three school-aged children (Ellie, G7; Brooke, G5, Nicholas, G1), I considered both perspectives throughout the series. Now, let us take a look at “Students”.  

At some point along the way in our careers, we as educators were drawn to the idea that we could help youngsters be their best self. Some impart content-specific knowledge onto their young, absorbent minds. Some provide experiential or life-lessons. Some teach them to be creative, adaptable thinkers and learners. Hopefully, all do a combination of each.

Students are the lifeblood of any academic institution from preschool up through college. There is nothing better than seeing their eager to learn eyes light up with joy and wonderment as they navigate a learning situation. Our job as educators is to prepare them for life beyond the formal, somewhat structurally rigid years of school. This goes beyond the rigors of academics in the cognitive domain. It also includes the physical elements of being healthy and well. Most importantly, in my opinion, is the social-emotional learning that takes place when nurturing the affective domain. NCPS has done a tremendous job emphasizing this (you can read more about that here) and our students surely benefit from this approach.

The goal is to help students be their best self. To be good people. One thing I have seen since coming on board at NCHS is that the collaboration of all stakeholders has done just that, create good people. NCHS students are kind. They are sincere. They are curious and genuine. Best of all, they really are good people. Often times, pictures speak way more than words. Please check out the following pictures of our students in action and let them speak for themselves!

Thank you for reading and thank you to everyone who has taken a moment to follow along in this series. I appreciate you.   

Please feel free to contact or follow me:

Twitter: @DavidGusitsch

Blog: https://davidgusitsch.blogspot.com/

Email: david.gusitsch@ncps-k12.org

**Bonus**: “1SE” (One Second Everyday) clip from August 30th through today (9/29/17)

NCHS 1SE

Stakeholder blog series (3 of 4) - It Takes a village...

2017.9.22

Stakeholder Blog Series (3 of 4)

It Takes a Village (Staff)...

“Outtakes”. A snippet of thoughts to kick off this blog post:

The students are why we are here. The faculty and staff are key in educating the whole child in a well-rounded environment.

What I am looking forward to putting into practice, or continuing:

Supporting teachers in their professional growth and feeling comfortable “taking chances” in moving forward.

Quote(s) that resonated with me this week:

“TEAM” (Together wE Achieve More)

This weeks blog will continue the four-week series on stakeholders in education. This has been exciting to think about because it factors in all of the moving parts that make an educational system operate. EdTechReview defines a stakeholder as follows:

“A stakeholder is anyone who is involved in the welfare and success of a school and its students, including administrators, teachers, staff, students, parents, community members, school board members, city councilors and state representatives”. ( EdTechReview)

For the purpose of this series, we will focus on four specific groups of stakeholders: parents, community, faculty and staff, and of course, our biggest asset, students. As an educator as well as a parent of three school-aged children (Ellie, G7; Brooke, G5, Nicholas, G1), I will consider both perspectives throughout the series. Now, let us take a look at “Faculty & Staff”.   

NCHS is truly a “community of caring”. The culture has been established that in order for everyone to do the best job possible and have the greatest impact on our students, there must be a comfortable, respectful work environment. This translates to an emphasis on the sometimes overlooked social-emotional piece that is so important in creating a positive learning environment. There is a commitment to educating the whole child and providing a well-rounded education to all children, at all levels. The fact that our superintendent and central office began the year with the district administrative team participating in a two-day Orange Frog workshop on the power of positivity, speaks volumes.

Teachers and administrators at NCHS work collaboratively to foster this positive learning environment while delivering their respective curriculum with the highest level of fidelity. Several teachers have taken part in sharing positive messages by submitting “quotes of the week” that are displayed on screens throughout the school and on the school website. Others have connected and share their enthusiasm and ideas through social media. There is a level of professionalism and respect that allows the faculty and staff to do their job with a level of comfort to not only teach children, but to take chances and try new, innovative ways of teaching and learning.

Support staff are actively involved on a daily basis to help guide, counsel, or simply pick up on small nuances that may indicate a student needs a little help. The nursing office is a hub of activity on any given day. Both the nursing and counseling staff see, hear, and experience situations that many people can not imagine and they do it with a smile and positive attitude. The amazing part is that it is not superficial because they feel it is what they should do. It is who they are, which makes this place special.

It is not by accident that administrative assistants, facilities and maintenance personnel, and food service providers are recognized last (save the best for last...). They are truly the main cogs that keep the NCHS operation running smoothly. The physical plant is maintained and ready on a daily basis. As the person who oversees the maintenance request tickets (on top of the daily operational responsibilities), this is no small task. Administrative assistants are often times the face and voice of the school as they field questions, provide assistance and resources and help everyone maximize their time to focus on student needs. Food service staff not only provide an amazing selection of healthy food options, they help the entire school avoid getting to the serious condition known as “hangry”.         

Overall, it really does take a village to raise a child. It takes a great village to raise 1,325 of them and NCHS is just that. Considering students, faculty, and staff, the building welcomes and operates with over 1,500 people on a daily basis. This is bigger than some small towns in Connecticut. The collaborative efforts, the “team” meetings, the programming, preparation, and execution of goals and plans are all part of this process. The fact that this all comes together grounded with a positive attitude makes this truly an exceptional place.    

Please feel free to contact or follow me:

Twitter: @DavidGusitsch

Blog: https://davidgusitsch.blogspot.com/

Email: david.gusitsch@ncps-k12.org

Stakeholder blog series (2 of 4) - Community

2017.9.15

Stakeholder Blog Series (2 of 4)

Community

“Outtakes”. A snippet of thoughts to kick off this blog post:

A community/school partnership can be the foundation of a positive town culture with limitless benefits.

What I am looking forward to putting into practice, or continuing:

Finding resources that will help us grow the relationship between the school and the community.

Quote(s) that resonated with me this week:

“People will forget what you said, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”  ~ Maya Angelou

“Keep learning new stuff.”  ~ BMS Open House

“We give kids the power to solve their own problems.”  ~ NCHS Math

This weeks blog will continue the four week series on stakeholders in education. This has been exciting to think about because it factors in all of the moving parts that make an educational system operate. EdTechReview defines a stakeholder as follows:

“A stakeholder is anyone who is involved in the welfare and success of a school and its students, including administrators, teachers, staff, students, parents, community members, school board members, city councilors and state representatives”. ( EdTechReview)

For the purpose of this series we will focus on four specific groups of stakeholders: parents, community, faculty and staff, and of course, our biggest asset, students. As an educator as well as a parent of three school aged children (Ellie, G7; Brooke, G5, Nicholas, G1), I will consider both perspectives throughout the series. Now, let us take a look at “Community”.   

Schools are sometimes considered the “crown jewel” of a community, and rightfully so. New Canaan High School has an amazing community partnership. Whether community members have a child in the school, had children go through the school system, or simply live in town, all residents benefit from a good school system. I have been blessed to work and live in some communities with excellent school systems. In many cases, the school system is a deciding factor on where families choose to relocate. I have already heard several instances of this being the case here in New Canaan. To oversimplify, this benefits everyone (real estate, local businesses, residents, etc.). The pride that goes along with knowing the children of a community are being provided an outstanding education crosses all lines within in a town.

Besides the positive “vibe” that goes along with a community, there are many benefits to a strong school/community connection. There are magnets and stickers on cars that show school spirit. There are school emblems emblazoned on clothing that is sold and worn throughout the community. In many communities, schools are represented on town property with murals on town buildings, school emblems or mascots on water towers, or flags and banners displayed proudly around town. In turn, there are paintings, portraits, or art celebrating buildings, culture, people or history of the town in the schools. All of this together brings about a sense of pride, ownership, and belonging to something that is positive.

A strong school community/school partnership results in everyone benefitting from shared facilities. The town may use the schools for community events, sometimes as emergency response shelter locations. The schools take advantage of the rich history and culture to enhance learning. Extra-curricular activities occur on town property. For example, the opportunity for student athletes to have an outdoor swim meet at Waveny is an experience they will remember forever. The YMCA and the schools are close in proximity and benefit from reciprocal use of facilities based on needs.

The relationship between the schools and the organizations in town go beyond positive team building. The police, fire, and first responders are all partners in keeping the community and schools safe. On top of this, they all go out of their way to bridge the gaps between municipal organizations and work together collaboratively to meet the objectives of keeping everyone safe, and happy.

In terms of events, communities are unique in their interests. Some are focused on and have a strong interest in the arts. Some are huge supporters of athletics. Others have a nice balance between them where schools and communities come together to benefit from top rated musical performances, art shows, athletic events of all levels and offerings, and oft considered broadway quality productions through the theatre program.

One key group that needs to be recognized is the Board of Education. Below is some information (abbreviated) that describes their role:

The New Canaan Board of Education is pleased to be the bridge between our community and our school system...

Among our primary duties are the identification of educational goals to be met by the school District; the consideration and approval of an annual budget for submission to the Board of Selectman, the Board of Finance and the Town Council; the selection of a Superintendent, who serves as the executive officer of the Board; and the employment of principals, teachers and other school employees...

It is important to recognize the efforts of these tireless volunteers. Not only do they have the best interest of the schools in mind, they work to ensure curricula are delivered with fidelity, the schools are fiscally responsible, the facilities are maintained and continually improved, and last but not least, students are provided the best education possible!   

Please feel free to contact or follow me:

Twitter: @DavidGusitsch

Blog: https://davidgusitsch.blogspot.com/

Email: david.gusitsch@ncps-k12.org

Stakeholder blog series (1 of 4) - Meet the Parents

2017.9.8

Stakeholder Blog Series (1 of 4)

Meet the Parents

“Outtakes”. A snippet of thoughts to kick off this blog post:

When people (in this case, parents) care, and join forces, they are capable of amazing outcomes.

What I am looking forward to putting into practice, or continuing:

Looking for ways to continue to improve the already impressive campus and school community.

Quote(s) that resonated with me this week:

Details matter. Pay attention to the details in everything that you do.

The blog this week will kick off a four week series on stakeholders in education. This has been exciting to think about because it factors in all of the moving parts that make an educational system operate. EdTechReview defines a stakeholder as follows:

“A stakeholder is anyone who is involved in the welfare and success of a school and its students, including administrators, teachers, staff, students, parents, community members, school board members, city councilors and state representatives”. ( EdTechReview)

For the purpose of this series, we will focus on four specific groups of stakeholders: parents, community, faculty and staff, and of course, our biggest asset, students. As an educator as well as a parent of three school aged children (Ellie, G7; Brooke, G5, Nicholas, G1), I will consider both perspectives throughout the series. Without further adieu, let us “Meet the Parents”.   

To say that New Canaan High School is a special place would be an understatement. This school is supported and held in high regard by all stakeholders. The investments of time, money, work and volunteerism that go into NCHS demonstrate the desire to provide the best overall experience for the students of New Canaan.

It did not take long to see these investments in action through the work of the amazing Parent Faculty Association at NCHS. Be sure to check out their site, here, or on Twitter at @nchs_pfa. I came on board in the midst of a fairly significant beautification project that has improved the overall look and feel of the physical plant. Pictures speak louder than words and you can see some of their efforts below.

Between outdoor plantings, banners, signage, comfortable seating, a suitable base for the school mascot (Ram), welcoming & informational events, staff appreciation, and much more, the PFA has transformed what was a fine learning institution into a fine learning institution with an amazingly positive feel. This makes a big difference. It instills pride and ownership in students and staff. This all translates into a more comfortable learning environment. A lot of science and research go into making spaces pleasant or suitable to the specific intent of an organization, or simply branding (this is why fast food restaurants use certain colors and furniture to increase sales). Think about stepping foot onto a college campus that has a sense of pride in their campus. School colors are prominent. There are attractive signs that help you navigate your way around. There are comfortable seating areas that invite you to relax, or study, or socialize. There are banners celebrating the school and all of its areas or offerings. All of this helps tighten the academic, social-emotional, and physical loop of a school.  

Without the efforts and investments of the parents in the NCHS community, none of this would be possible. I believe that students appreciate what they have here. I also know that when NCHS students leave here and speak with friends who did not attend NCHS, they will truly know how fortunate they are to have a parent base as committed as the NCHS PFA. Thank you for all that you do!

Please feel free to contact or follow me:

Twitter: @DavidGusitsch

Blog: https://davidgusitsch.blogspot.com/

Email: david.gusitsch@ncps-k12.org

Opening Week - Return of the Students

2017.9.2

Opening Week - Return of the Students

“Outtakes”. A snippet of thoughts to kick off this blog post:

Students are the heartbeat of a building.

It is important to remember that we don’t just teach content (in respective disciplines), we teach students.

What I am looking forward to putting into practice, or continuing:

Shorter blog posts :)

Quote(s) that resonated with me this week:

“I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” ~ Maya Angelou

“Nobody cares how much you know, until they know how much you care.” ~ Theodore Roosevelt

Saying this was an exciting week would be an understatement. A new school year in a new building, meeting new staff who are reporting back for the new school year, welcoming 1325 students (and many of their parents) back, and celebrating the return of school for our own kids (Ellie, Brooke, and Nicholas) at home in Bethel. This is like a superfecta for educators!

Monday began with the NCPS Convocation which was held in the cafeteria of NCHS. The theme of the morning exuded positivity from beginning to end. The first selectman (@rmall3) shared his commitment to the important partnership between the town and its schools. The Board of Education showed their gratitude for the work of the hundreds of educators in the room and their pledge to support one of the best school districts in the state. Our Superintendent (@Dr_Luizzi) shared professional and personal moments and gratitudes. There were references to our positive psychology (Orange Frog) administrative retreat, inspirational quotes, and the message that we need to continue being considerate of all of the needs of all of our students and staff. It is refreshing to hear the emphasis on the social-emotional needs of everyone and the importance of educating the whole child. Monday afternoon, the building became alive again as the freshmen entered the building for their open house to explore the building, find their classrooms, and meet some of the NCHS staff.

Tuesday was a time for staff to meet with their course-alike colleagues, do some professional learning activities, and prepare for the return of the entire student body the next day. I worked with the NCHS Science department in the morning. Seventeen of us started the morning with some ice-breakers (twisted and rock, paper, scissor group championship), followed by some positive reflections (dopamine shot) from the summer, and then diving into some great content specific work. Congratulations to Jeff Hague - the August, 2017 RSP Champion!

Tuesday continued with a presentation on the Connections program at NCHS. It focused on the importance of connecting (hence the name) with students and getting an opportunity to learn about and build relationships with them outside of the context of “the classroom”. This is a great model. The day rounded out with a full faculty meeting that further extended the theme of positivity and the focus on the social-emotional needs of students and staff. This is a great place and should be a great year...

Wednesday was game day! The moment that we have all been waiting for. The return of the student body. As expected it was filled with excitement, enthusiasm, smiles, handshakes, hugs, and the over the top school spirit that only the senior class can bring (each year)! The hallways are like a circulatory system and the students are the heartbeat of the building. It was great to see the building filled with vibrant life again. Throughout the day we made rounds, visited classrooms and saw staff doing what they do best, building relationships to prepare to teach their students.

Thursday was the first full day and maintained a positive level of excitement. Visiting classrooms was a treat as teachers were now beginning to dive into their craft and share their expertise with their students (pics below). NCHS is truly an amazing learning environment filled with committed professionals.

By the end of the week, all class meetings were held. Principal Egan (@WEganprincipal) greeted each class and delivered an inspiring message to each group. The theme was not on rules and policies of the school, but about appreciating the resources and opportunities that are available, being kind to one another, being a leader and role model in the school community, and just being a good person. It was clear how much Mr. Egan cares about the students of NCHS and this is why the students seem to respond so positively in return.  

I realize in my first blog post that I stated I would try to make these entries shorter. Future posts will not be as much “day by day” as they will be more on a relevant topic to explore. Thank you again to those who have taken the time to visit and read!

Please feel free to contact or follow me:

Twitter: @DavidGusitsch

Blog: https://davidgusitsch.blogspot.com/

Email: david.gusitsch@ncps-k12.org