As the Head of School, one of my tasks is to observe our faculty as they interact with their students. I find this invigorating. I watch my teaching colleagues bring out the best in their students. I see mature behaviors in young people in ways that surprise me. I am always impressed by the expertise, patience, talent, and finesse our teaching professionals bring into their classrooms.
Just today, I watched as:
- Betsy Layne demonstrated the difference between standard and non-standard units of measurement with her 1st graders. These are 6-year-olds learning a “handful” or a “pinch” are nonstandard and why. Betsy then helped them first estimate and later measure their arms, legs, and waists using standard measurements (inches or centimeters). Each time a student jumped in with an observation, she challenged them with critical thinking questions like “How do you know?” or “Does that make sense?” or “What do you think?”
- It was a joy to observe Rebekah Green’s thoughtfully designed 4th grade PE class. She divided her students into small teams. The teams then either competed or were the spectators in short 90-second bursts before switching roles and games (soccer, basketball, or ultimate frisbee). It was fast-paced with Rebekah throwing in a coaching comment to help students strategize or commending good sportsmanship and teamwork. It was an amazing class period.
- I was especially gratified to see Haylie Ogden teaching her 6th grade English students to engage in and practice civil discourse. Many have bemoaned the demise of civility, but Haylie has introduced her students to this vital concept. By utilizing literature circles, small groups of students discussing various aspects of their reading, she has encouraged them to share their thoughts confidently, while engaging in respectful listening--each taking a turn. One student moderated the discussion, one took notes, etc. This seemed normal to these 11-year-olds, but it isn’t typically practiced elsewhere until high school.
These scenes of engagement, personalization, and love of learning take place daily at James River; they’re commonplace here. This masterful blend of teaching techniques, genuine love for the students, and willingness to set high expectations is what makes a James River education so special. I am looking forward to the next round of classroom observations. I know I will again learn something from watching my colleagues work--I always do.