Chrysalis School

Traditions

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IMG_6384Research: Psychologist Marie Hartwell-Walker’s article on family traditions gives some great insight into the importance that they play in our children’s lives. The holidays are steeped in tradition, with every family’s particular version varying widely. But what they all have in common is that they help mark the passage of time, provide moments for introspection and reflection, identify a child’s place in their community, and most importantly, reinforce a child’s sense of security. She states, “Anything positive, done regularly, puts something important in the child’s internal ‘security bank;’ emotional steadiness that can be drawn on in more difficult times.”
Practice: One of our winter traditions at South Campus is our annual Gingerbread House Day. It’s a time when the whole school (grades K-7) comes together to construct sweet fantastical creations. It’s so fun to see how the kids’ creations progress each year as they grow older and more skilled, and we all develop fond memories (teachers included)! What traditions does your family have?

It’s Not Rocket Science, It’s a No-brainer

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band (1 of 5)Research: In 1933 John Dewey wrote that teachers must “give full time and attention to observation and interpretation of the pupils’ intellectual reactions.” What he was referring to is now termed “presence.” Research shows that learning is bound to essential, authentic relationships where teachers are present with their students, paying close attention to their needs, and responding intelligently and compassionately to them. Presence is a major component of prompting participation in the learning experience and positive educational outcomes.
Practice: At Chrysalis we recognize the power of presence—it build the critical foundation for learning and can contribute to a transformational experience for students. All of our students receive one-on-one instruction in some form, providing hours of adult presence in their days. They feel seen and heard by teachers who strive to constantly balance the right amount of challenge with support to create and optimal learning environment. Click here for tips on how to practice being present at home.

Makerspace

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band (2 of 5)Research: A new trend in education is the concept of the “makerspace.” Makerspaces are zones for creativity, where people can access tools and materials to tinker, experiment, and try out new ideas. It’s student-driven experiential learning in action. Roland Barth, of the Harvard Principals’ Center, notes that such hands-on learning develops risk-taking, purposefulness in learning, the ability to pose important questions, freedom, hard work, collective learning, leadership, and a sense of responsibility for one’s self and others (2001). These are important characteristics not only of a successful student, but of a successful adult more generally.
Practice: We received a generous grant from the Glendorn Foundation to set up our own makerspace this year at the high school, and it’s starting to take form! Several enrichment areas have already been added to the activity room (where students gather between classes), including a sewing station, textile/paper station, game corner, and musical instruments. A workshop is in the works and electronics are coming in the new year! Students are beginning to use the new items in their free time and our hope is to encourage socialization, student-driven projects, peer teaching, and multiple ways to express learning.

We Don’t Confine Learning To the Classroom

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Dante GymnasticsResearch: There’s a movement happening in education that seeks to validate the learning that students do outside of the formal academic setting. Important skills can be gained in a variety of areas outside of school, including sports, music, art, volunteer work, or any other passion—activities that truly express student personalities, interests, and achievements. The challenge schools face now is to formalize a process that expresses these learning experiences and acknowledges the learning they’re already engaged in.

Practice: We’ve always known that learning isn’t confined to a classroom or school setting. This is why we encourage students to follow their passions and allow them time in their schedules to do so. It’s also why at the high school level we allow students to gain credit for activities they pursue outside of school, including PE, volunteer work, employment, and music.

Talking About Tragedy with Children

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France flagResearch: Our hearts go out to those affected by the attacks on Paris last weekend. These are scary moments that bring up many questions for adults and children alike. Time magazine published a great article this week that compiled various expert opinions on how to talk to kids of all ages about the attacks. What matters most is that kids know it’s okay to feel afraid or sad in these moments, that we all express these emotions in different ways, and that we are available for them if they want to talk about it. It’s important that they express their worries and concerns. At the same time, it’s important to maintain routines and reassure them that these events are unusual.
Practice: Some students are engaging their teachers in conversations about these events, others are not. We take each student’s age, level of anxiety and sensitivity into account when confronting these issues. We will be available for kids to talk if they need to, without requiring that everyone do so.

Our Campuses

Chrysalis High School and Middle School
15900 Woodinville-Redmond Rd NE
Woodinville, WA p: (425) 481-2228

Chrysalis Elementary Campus
17005 140th Ave NE
Woodinville, WA p: (425) 481-2228

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