Head of School INNSider: October 2024

Dear SCH Community,

The other day, I was again thinking about What Do You Do with an Idea?, a picture book by Kobi Yamada I mentioned at Convocation. In it, a young child has a unique idea but initially doubts its value and potential. The idea is depicted as a small, energetic creature that grows as the child nurtures it. Despite initial challenges, such as fear that others will laugh at it, the child learns to care for the idea. As they do, the idea grows into something striking and extraordinary, showing us that ideas, when fed attention and faith, can change the world. Nurturing ideas into something big requires belief, often in the face of hurdles. In reaching for “What do you do with an idea?” I naturally return to the challenges and rewards of choosing the hard and pursuing it with might. 

Each school year, we do just that in our shared pursuit of excellence in teaching and learning… and community. As scholarly activities, teaching and learning are, at their root, hard. Our mission is about igniting curiosity, fostering independent thinking, cultivating self-awareness, and broadening global perspectives, all while helping our students realize their full academic and personal potential. This necessitates that students lead lives of purpose and impact, prepared to navigate an increasingly complex world. With the introduction of our Shaping Our Future framework, we are not only reaffirming our mission but also living it through five interconnected priorities that reflect both our enduring principles and our highest aspirations: vigorous academics, teaching, and learning; intentional and embedded innovation; an engaged community committed to belonging; the unique SCH story; and expanded investment in our future. These priorities serve as our compass, guiding our continuous evolution and ensuring we feed with rolled-up sleeves those ideas that will drive our school forward.  
 

Vigorous Academics, Teaching, and Learning

Our commitment to academic excellence continues to evolve, and this year marks a pivotal moment as we refine and define SCH’s academic identity with a deliberate focus on “Core Competencies.” These competencies, carefully developed by our academic leaders and faculty, are designed to create a consistent and comprehensive framework that informs teaching and learning across all divisions, fostering coherence and excellence throughout the student experience. The Core Competencies purpose statement, "Cultivating a rigorous learning environment anchored in curiosity, agency, and belonging," succinctly encapsulates our goal of empowering students to think critically, take active ownership of their learning journeys, and feel a profound sense of connection to their community.  

• Faculty-Led Book Studies: As part of our continuous pursuit of intellectual growth, our faculty are participating in book studies that align with our Core Competencies and broader educational goals. These book groups are more than just academic exercises; they are critical discussions that explore a range of pressing topics, from deepening learning experiences to addressing the urgent mental health needs of today’s youth. By engaging in these reflective conversations, faculty are not only gaining insight into current educational research but are also developing a shared language and framework that can be applied across grade levels, ensuring that we meet the varied needs of our students with clarity and purpose.

Intentional and Embedded Innovation

At SCH, innovation is not merely a buzzword—it is a fundamental principle that increasingly informs our approach to education. Our approach to innovation is both intentional and responsible, grounded in the establishment of a shared vision when it comes to teaching, learning, and the world of work. This year, one area of focus is on the role of artificial intelligence (AI), ensuring that both students and faculty are prepared to navigate and thrive in a world where technology is rapidly reshaping every facet of life. 

• AI Platforms: To support our academic community in this endeavor, we have introduced cutting-edge AI platforms such as MagicSchool.ai for both students and faculty, and Google Gemini for faculty use. These platforms are designed not merely as technological tools but as powerful engines for fostering creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration. For students, MagicSchool.ai offers opportunities to engage with AI-driven learning modules, from project-based assignments to real-time data analysis, enhancing their ability to think deeply and independently. For faculty, Google Gemini facilitates streamlined planning, assessment, and innovation in curriculum design, ensuring that technology enhances—rather than overshadows—the learning experience.

Engaged Community Committed to Belonging

At SCH, we want belonging to permeate every aspect of our community. We know that one of the conditions for student success is that they feel a strong sense of connection to their community. This year, we are reinforcing our efforts to create an environment where every student, faculty member, and staff feels seen, heard, and valued. Across all divisions, we are embedding programs and initiatives that promote not only a sense of community but also character development and a deeper understanding of diversity.

• Affinity and Alliance Groups: To further support our commitment to inclusion, we are expanding our affinity and alliance groups. These groups provide a space to connect, share experiences, and build a supportive community. Additionally, we are enhancing our cultural programming with events and celebrations that highlight heritage months, allowing our entire community to learn from and celebrate diverse cultures and identities. By highlighting diverse perspectives, we ensure that every student feels included and empowered.

The Unique SCH Story

I have previously shared how I routinely connect with every part of campus, feeling its notes and pitches, underlying beats, and patterns of time. SCH’s distinct culture and identity set us apart, and this year we are focused on promoting and sharing the unique SCH story more effectively. By enhancing our visibility and refining our messaging, we are ensuring that our community, both within and beyond our campus, understands what makes SCH special.

• Strategic Media Approach: Our media placements and admissions marketing efforts are designed to tell the SCH story in a compelling way. We’ve garnered media coverage that highlights our cutting-edge programs, like our robotics lab, student-led initiatives, and the ways our educators are pioneering new approaches to teaching.

Expanded Investment in Our Future

Our ability to fulfill our long-term vision depends on strategic planning, thoughtful investments, and a commitment to sustainability. We are undertaking projects aimed at enhancing our campus facilities, addressing deferred maintenance needs, and advancing sustainability efforts, all guided by a Facilities Conditions Assessment (FCA). A multi-year approach guided by the FCA allows us to prioritize repairs and long-term improvements.

• Safety and Sustainability Initiatives: Regular safety checks are essential, and a team works closely to address critical facility needs while planning for the future. Our facilities team is dedicated to maintaining a clean and attractive campus, with an emphasis on sustainability by using eco-friendly products and upgrading energy systems. We have also reintroduced an all-important facilities reserve, which ensures we can manage unexpected repairs without straining our budget.  

Throughout the year, I will be sharing more examples of our framework in action, which—along with unique SCH news stories in the SCHout—will elevate and amplify each priority.

Together, we are shaping a future that embodies our vision: to be at the forefront of independent school education through exceptional teaching, learning, creativity, and innovation. SCH graduates will emerge as catalysts for positive change, with their influence resonating far beyond our walls and throughout the world. 
 

Warmly,

Delvin Dinkins
Head of School