Our Mission in Action
Source/Author: Nancy L. Spencer, Head of School
August 28, 2020
One of the benefits of it being my first year at Shorecrest is that I have the opportunity to see the School with a fresh perspective. Everything is new and exciting as I watch the school year unfold.
In the past ten days I have met families who have been at Shorecrest for years; other families are long-time local residents but they are starting their first year as Chargers. Still other families have recently moved to St. Petersburg and the Tampa Bay Area from far away and, like me, they are still unpacking boxes and adjusting to this wonderful city.
I watched Experiential School students being dropped off at the beginning of the day. They exit their cars with backpacks that are more than half their body size and are greeted by smiling adults who escort them to their cheerful classrooms. I watched a weepy Alpha immediately swept up into the arms of Dr. Danyali, who comforted and carried her off to start the day, and her tears were gone by the time they got to the playground.
I walked by a group of fourth graders, sprawled outdoors on the sidewalk, and they told me they were doing a math project, using different kinds of numbers to describe characteristics about themselves. Somehow we also got into a discussion about the Boston Red Sox vs. the New York Yankees.
I got in line behind a group of Middle Schoolers who were walking using “Frankenstein arms” to keep their distance from each other, as we discussed the pros and cons of churros for dessert at lunch.
I received my first email from a student on the Flexible Learning Program and we set up a meeting to discuss issues and ideas that are on her mind.
I listened in as classes took place in the Library with engaged students and their teacher. I spoke with faculty members whose virtual classes are going well and some who have had a few technological glitches which they are working out with parents, so as to improve the online experience for all students.
I talked to a pair of Upper Schoolers who were filming a movie about the adventures of a hedgehog. I saw athletic teams training in the afternoon heat.
My first Chipotle group lunch with seniors was a wonderful opportunity to get to know a few members of the Class of 2021, as they take on the leadership role of the school. I enjoyed it immensely and look forward to meeting and lunching with all the seniors throughout the fall.
What I have seen thus far is a diverse community of families. I see a faculty working with children online and in person, helping these students to become lifelong learners, to pursue personal and academic excellence and embrace physical well-being along with creative achievement. I see teachers who help our students develop a commitment to social responsibility.
I see our mission in action.
All the best,
Nancy
In the past ten days I have met families who have been at Shorecrest for years; other families are long-time local residents but they are starting their first year as Chargers. Still other families have recently moved to St. Petersburg and the Tampa Bay Area from far away and, like me, they are still unpacking boxes and adjusting to this wonderful city.
I watched Experiential School students being dropped off at the beginning of the day. They exit their cars with backpacks that are more than half their body size and are greeted by smiling adults who escort them to their cheerful classrooms. I watched a weepy Alpha immediately swept up into the arms of Dr. Danyali, who comforted and carried her off to start the day, and her tears were gone by the time they got to the playground.
I walked by a group of fourth graders, sprawled outdoors on the sidewalk, and they told me they were doing a math project, using different kinds of numbers to describe characteristics about themselves. Somehow we also got into a discussion about the Boston Red Sox vs. the New York Yankees.
I got in line behind a group of Middle Schoolers who were walking using “Frankenstein arms” to keep their distance from each other, as we discussed the pros and cons of churros for dessert at lunch.
I received my first email from a student on the Flexible Learning Program and we set up a meeting to discuss issues and ideas that are on her mind.
I listened in as classes took place in the Library with engaged students and their teacher. I spoke with faculty members whose virtual classes are going well and some who have had a few technological glitches which they are working out with parents, so as to improve the online experience for all students.
I talked to a pair of Upper Schoolers who were filming a movie about the adventures of a hedgehog. I saw athletic teams training in the afternoon heat.
My first Chipotle group lunch with seniors was a wonderful opportunity to get to know a few members of the Class of 2021, as they take on the leadership role of the school. I enjoyed it immensely and look forward to meeting and lunching with all the seniors throughout the fall.
What I have seen thus far is a diverse community of families. I see a faculty working with children online and in person, helping these students to become lifelong learners, to pursue personal and academic excellence and embrace physical well-being along with creative achievement. I see teachers who help our students develop a commitment to social responsibility.
I see our mission in action.
All the best,
Nancy
