Do full moons really affect human behavior? The scientific answer is no. But just in case, the next full moon is Sept. 13. AND.... it's a Friday. It's a full moon Friday the 13th. So be prepared. After two weeks, the students do seem to have adapted to new teachers and new routines. While some may seem to be rebelling, children really do like structure and knowing what to expect. Here is something to ponder, someone said to me just yesterday that St. Stephen is more casual than other schools in the Diocese. In other schools, students stand and greet visitors when they come in. That has never been my experience here with a few exceptions along the way. Do we need to be more formal? Would that create a greater sense of calm and respect? First grade does greet me when I come in, but it's a fun greeting that goes with their theme. It's something we can think about.
One place that quiet and reverence should be expected is at Mass. For those of you who were here a few years ago, Mass in the school and then in the FLC was challenging and students didn't have the same behavior as they do now that we have Mass at church. However, when Mass is over, that same quiet reverence needs to be maintained. Before going to Mass this week, remind your students that they should be quiet walking to Mass as they are preparing themselves to receive God's Word and for some, God's grace through the Eucharist. After Mass, students should remain silent as they reflect on the Homily and how it connects to their life. You can decide if you wish them to talk quietly on the walk back, but they should wait until they reach the sidewalk by the FLC.
Being quiet is a skill, should be practiced, and has many benefits. School is hard work, and students need that quiet calm to rest and recharge. They will also get much more accomplished when they are quiet. Having said that, noise can also be a positive thing. When I come in a room and students are working independently and talking, I pause to listen to the conversation. The majority of the time, they are talking about and helping each other with their work. That's good noise. Working collaboratively through a difficult problem is good noise. It's knowing when to make noise and when to be quiet. I do think we should write the words of Fr. Dermot's mom in everyone room... "Is it truthful? Is it kind? Is it necessary?" If not, maybe it does not need to be said.
This Monday we have our a PLC faculty meeting. For this first one, we will all meet together to discuss what PLC meetings should look like.
Friday is a half-day followed by prof. dev. We will start our Friday meeting promptly at 12:30 pm in the Media Center. Bring your lunch to eat while I talk about Message Pro. Members of Faith Formation and the Church will be joining us. For new employees, you should receive an email prior to Friday asking you to download the Message Pro app and register. If you do not receive this by Wednesday, let me know. Please follow the directions. If you were here last year and need the link sent again, let me know. Everyone MUST have the app for this to work. This will be followed by a discussion of CIPA for our 3rd Year Review and then i-Ready training. Not everyone will need to stay for the last part, Gina will let you know.
Have a wonderful week!
