Dear Middle School Families,
“It is not that I’m so smart. But I stay with the questions much longer.”
― Albert Einstein
To me, this quote describes what I see in many Middle School classrooms at Mount Vernon. Isn’t this part of what it means to be a “school of inquiry”? I love hearing the questions our students ask. They are powerful. They are simple. They bring focus. They generate other questions. They are not always easily answered. They require us to wrestle not only with thoughts and ideas, but with decisions, actions, and solutions. Here, we start with questions. Maybe Einstein is saying we continue with questions, too.
Our students are asking, “How might we have fun? How might we have more freedom? How might we be liked, loved, and accepted?
Our teachers are asking, “How might we serve our students? How might we have more time? How might we be the best in our field? How might we assess and document essential demonstrations of learning?”
Our parents are asking, How might we support, partner, contribute, and volunteer? How might we best position our kids in the world? How do I keep up with my child’s activity through social media?”
Our School is asking, “How might teaching and learning be more relevant and meaningful? How might we make a dent in the world? Do all questions begin with how might we? How does R & D (research and design) function in an educational setting?”
Our Christian Education small groups are asking, “Are you trusting God with the critical areas of your life? Are you establishing healthy friendships and avoiding unhealthy ones? Are you making wise choices in every area of your life? Are you putting the needs of others ahead of your own?”
A panel of 7th & 8th graders selected to represent MVPS at the Power over Prejudice Conference held at Georgia Tech is asking, “How might we eliminate prejudice, discrimination, gossip, and disrespect? How might we treat others the way we want to be treated?”
Our student service club is asking, “How many cans can we collect? How many toys can we donate?”
A letter like this is a great place to celebrate the wins and generate an abundant list recounting the great achievements and events of our community. Right now, I am intrigued by and staying with the questions we are asking.
“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given to him.” – James 1:5
Have a Blessed and Happy Thanksgiving!
Chip Houston
Head of Middle School