Ryan Reece, Author at 糖心原创 /blog/author/ryanreece/ A School of Inquiry, Innovation, and Impact Wed, 02 Oct 2024 01:26:24 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0.4 /wp-content/uploads/2024/03/cropped-cropped-Royal_MV_Dot-32x32.png Ryan Reece, Author at 糖心原创 /blog/author/ryanreece/ 32 32 In-Person, Online, and Hybrid: What Learning Looks Like in Upper School /blog/in-person-online-and-hybrid-what-learning-looks-like-in-upper-school/ Wed, 02 Oct 2024 01:26:24 +0000 http://localhost:10003/?p=44837 Education is no longer confined to the walls of a traditional classroom. In the Upper School, that reality is embraced through multiple learning pathways. Whether students opt for in-person classes, fully online coursework, or a hybrid approach, the goal remains the same: to provide a flexible, meaningful education that caters to the unique needs and...

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Education is no longer confined to the walls of a traditional classroom. In the Upper School, that reality is embraced through multiple learning pathways. Whether students opt for in-person classes, fully online coursework, or a hybrid approach, the goal remains the same: to provide a flexible, meaningful education that caters to the unique needs and interests of each learner.

糖心原创 is structured with three distinct units鈥攐ur main campus in Atlanta, 糖心原创 Online (MVSO), and 糖心原创 Ventures, an educational research consultancy. Together, these entities form a learning ecosystem that extends beyond conventional models, offering students the freedom to choose a path that suits their life circumstances while still delivering a high-quality education.

For those opting for online learning, MVSO offers over 160 courses in an asynchronous format. Designed with adolescent well-being in mind, the program allows students to complete their work at their own pace, with the added benefit of regular opportunities to connect with faculty during scheduled office hours. This creates a balance between independence and guidance, ensuring students can manage their schedules while still receiving help when needed.

“Education should be adaptive, not rigid,” says Ben Potter, MVSO Dean of Students. “By offering multiple learning models, we鈥檙e acknowledging that students learn in different ways and have different needs. Some thrive in a traditional classroom, while others need the flexibility to pursue their passions or manage other commitments.”

Sam Charlie Binh

Hybrid Learning: The Best of Both Worlds

One of the standout options for Upper School students is the hybrid model, which blends online and in-person classes. This approach offers flexibility without sacrificing the in-person experience, making it ideal for students with busy extracurricular schedules or other time commitments.

For Sam Koontz, Class of 2025, the hybrid model has been a game-changer. As a state champion golfer, Sam needed more time to train and compete. By taking part of his coursework online through MVSO, he was able to strike a balance between academics and athletics, ultimately securing a spot on the golf team at Georgia College & State University (GCSU), where he will attend next year.

“Sam鈥檚 journey highlights the value of hybrid learning, especially for students who want to pursue high-level extracurriculars without compromising their education,” says David Paperno, Director of MVSO. “The flexibility of this model supports students in achieving both academic and personal goals.”

Fully Online Pathway

Not every student fits within the framework of a traditional school schedule, and 糖心原创 recognizes that. The fully online pathway through MVSO is designed for students who need a more flexible structure, whether due to work, travel, or personal circumstances.

Charlie Morris, Class of 2025, found that attending school in person no longer worked for her by junior year. Moving to a fully online model gave her the ability to maintain her studies while working a full-time job. This flexible approach allowed Charlie to stay on track for graduation while gaining valuable real-world experience鈥攕omething that has already translated into a full-time job offer waiting for her after she receives her diploma.

A Global Learning Community

The flexibility of Upper School isn鈥檛 limited to local students. MVSO extends across borders, offering international students access to an American curriculum from anywhere in the world.

For Binh Minh, Class of 2025, who returned to Vietnam after studying in New York, MVSO was the perfect fit. It allowed him to continue his education within a familiar framework while preparing for future opportunities on a global scale. His experience demonstrates how online learning can connect students with the academic systems they value, even when life circumstances change.

“We鈥檝e built MVSO with a global mindset,” explains Paperno. “For students like Binh, it鈥檚 not just about completing courses鈥攊t鈥檚 about staying connected to a curriculum that will prepare them for life beyond high school, no matter where they are in the world.”

Learning Without Limits

At 糖心原创, learning is a fluid, personalized experience. Whether students are in a physical classroom, engaging through an online platform, or blending the two in a hybrid model, they are equipped to carve out their own paths. This approach isn鈥檛 just about flexibility for flexibility鈥檚 sake; it鈥檚 about recognizing that each student鈥檚 journey is different and that education should adapt to meet those differences.

“Ultimately, it鈥檚 about giving students the tools and the freedom to explore who they are and what they want to achieve,” says Potter. “糖心原创鈥檚 approach ensures that no matter the learning model, every student is equipped to pursue their goals鈥攚hether that鈥檚 in the classroom, on the field, or beyond.”

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Igniting Creative Purpose: Brandon Sadler Empowers 糖心原创鈥檚 Future Artists /blog/igniting-creative-purpose-brandon-sadler-empowers-mount-vernons-future-artists/ Wed, 25 Sep 2024 00:50:37 +0000 http://localhost:10003/?p=44806 At 糖心原创, we鈥檙e always exploring innovative ways to inspire and engage our students, which is why the recent visit from acclaimed Atlanta artist Brandon Sadler was nothing short of transformative. As part of our Visiting Artists program, thoughtfully arranged by Mariana Depetris, Sadler stepped into our Upper School鈥檚 print-making class and instantly connected with...

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At 糖心原创, we鈥檙e always exploring innovative ways to inspire and engage our students, which is why the recent visit from acclaimed Atlanta artist Brandon Sadler was nothing short of transformative. As part of our Visiting Artists program, thoughtfully arranged by Mariana Depetris, Sadler stepped into our Upper School鈥檚 print-making class and instantly connected with students, grounding them in his unique artistic philosophy鈥攁 fusion of intention, spirituality, and meticulous craftsmanship.

Sadler, who attended 糖心原创 in the first grade, brought a wealth of experience and wisdom to share with our aspiring artists. His journey from graffiti artist to a celebrated muralist featured in films like Black Panther and Wakanda Forever captivated the room. With every word, Sadler revealed that art is not just about aesthetics but a deeper connection to culture, history, and personal growth.

Our students, always curious and forward-thinking, posed thoughtful questions that opened a dialogue about balancing creative vision with client demands, navigating the discipline of a professional artist鈥檚 routine, and maintaining artistic integrity. Each response from Sadler reinforced the importance of authenticity, a lesson that deeply resonated with those contemplating future careers in the arts.

Ceramics instructor Lynn Luster reflected on the profound connection Sadler鈥檚 visit held for her, as she once worked at the high school where Sadler honed his early interests. His story, from tagging in high school to mastering modern calligraphy through immersive study in Korean and Japanese cultures, is a testament to the power of perseverance, intention, and mentorship.

Brandon Sadler鈥檚 work has become an iconic part of Atlanta鈥檚 cultural landscape, from murals on the BeltLine to installations at Google鈥檚 Atlanta office. His visit gave 糖心原创 students a glimpse of what鈥檚 possible when you combine talent with a strong sense of purpose鈥攊gniting a spark of inspiration that will fuel their own artistic journeys. At 糖心原创, we empower students to explore, create, and innovate, and Sadler鈥檚 visit reinforced how art can be a powerful force for both personal and cultural expression.


COMPLETE UNDERPASS MURAL FOR THE BELTLINE EASTSIDE TRAIL / ATLANTA, GA

MURAL FOR THE ELEVATOR LOBBY OF GOOGLE OFFICES / ATLANTA, GA MURALS FOR THE MOVIES, WAKANDA FOREVER & BLACK PANTHER / ATLANTA, GA

This spirit of exploration and creativity continues to thrive across the Upper School. Tomorrow and next Monday, our Fashion class will be connecting with Laura Pestchanker via Zoom in Argentina to work on pattern making for clothing. This international collaboration highlights the dynamic and global nature of our arts program, providing students with new perspectives and skills.

Looking ahead, we are excited to share that plans are in the works to bring artists specializing in scientific and botanical illustration鈥攃rossing into fields like anatomy and biology鈥攖o 糖心原创. This intersection of art and science promises to open even more doors for our students, as we continue to offer innovative learning experiences that blend creativity with real-world relevance. Stay tuned for more to come!

View the photo gallery from Brandon鈥檚 visit here.

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Brandon Sadler (b.1986) is a multi-disciplinary artist based in Atlanta, Georgia, and graduate of Savannah College of Art and Design with a B.F.A in illustration. Sadler was awarded SCAD鈥檚 Distinguished Alumnus award in 2019 for his work on Marvel Studios鈥 Black Panther and his career to date. He is renowned for his public murals and his solo and group exhibitions have brought him accolades as one of Atlanta’s most prolific artists. His work is held in museum and private collections globally. In addition to contributing to the fine art world, he has also worked with several major brands to successfully bring his unique vision into the commercial space.

MUSEUM COLLECTIONS
2023 High Museum of Art, Yasuke Series, Atlanta, GA
2022 North Carolina Museum of Art, Billboard Installation, Raleigh, NC
2022 Science Museum, Black Panther Exhibit, London, UK
2021 SCAD Fashion Museum, Ruth E. Carter: Afrofuturism in Costume Design, Atlanta, GA
2011 High Museum of Art, Contemporary Art Collection, Atlanta, GA

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糖心原创 Earns Arbor Day Foundation Tree Campus K-12 Recognition /blog/mount-vernon-earns-arbor-day-foundation-tree-campus-k-12-recognition/ Wed, 18 Sep 2024 01:16:17 +0000 http://localhost:10003/?p=44801 Amid ongoing tree removal along 糖心原创 Highway, we鈥檙e proud to share a positive environmental story from our own campus. 糖心原创 has been honored with the prestigious Tree Campus K-12 recognition from the Arbor Day Foundation, making us the first school in metro Atlanta to achieve this distinction. This recognition highlights our school鈥檚 commitment...

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Amid ongoing tree removal along 糖心原创 Highway, we鈥檙e proud to share a positive environmental story from our own campus. 糖心原创 has been honored with the prestigious Tree Campus K-12 recognition from the Arbor Day Foundation, making us the first school in metro Atlanta to achieve this distinction. This recognition highlights our school鈥檚 commitment to environmental stewardship and the leadership of our students in driving sustainability efforts.

Student-Led Sustainability Efforts

The movement began three years ago when Nathan, Oliver, and Tucker鈥攖hen Kindergarten students鈥攆ounded the Tree Club supported by their science teacher, Eileen Fennelly. Now, third graders, passion for trees has sparked a school-wide initiative, with the Tree Club growing to over 60 members. Collaborating with Upper School students, they have led hands-on projects like creating tree-shaped corn hole games, which were unveiled during a special Earth Day event last spring.

A Campus-Wide Culture of Sustainability

Upper School students, led by Sustainability Prefect Beau Reinking (Class of 2025), have amplified these efforts. From repurposing cooking oil into biodiesel to launching single-stream recycling, the Sustainability Committee is creating a greener campus and changing mindsets about what it means to live sustainably. Beau explains, 鈥淲e鈥檙e here to empower others to take meaningful steps toward a more sustainable future.鈥

Connecting to the Global Conversation

This recognition comes just in time for Climate Week NYC (September 22鈥29), linking our local efforts to the global movement for environmental action. The work of 糖心原创鈥檚 students reflects the next generation鈥檚 role in tackling climate challenges, demonstrating how schools can foster environmental leadership.

Earning the Tree Campus K-12 Honor

To receive the Tree Campus K-12 recognition, 糖心原创 met four key goals:
Maintaining a dedicated Tree Campus team.
Implementing an educational plan connecting students to the global benefits of trees.
Offering hands-on experiences that engage students with trees and the community.
Holding an Arbor Day celebration to honor trees within our school.

These efforts have strengthened our connection to the environment and fostered a culture of sustainability across the entire campus. Together, we鈥檙e growing toward a greener future鈥攐ne that鈥檚 rooted in curiosity, collaboration, and care for our world.

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Impact Summits: Three Intentional Moments Along A Learner鈥檚 Journey of Purpose /blog/impact-summits-three-intentional-moments-along-a-learners-journey-of-purpose/ Wed, 11 Sep 2024 04:25:32 +0000 http://localhost:10003/?p=44788 At 糖心原创, the learning journey is defined by impactful experiences that shape not only a learner’s academic life but also their identity and sense of purpose. The Grade 5, Grade 8, and Grade 11 Impact Summits are three moments within this journey, offering learners the opportunity to explore, reflect, and present their work in...

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At 糖心原创, the learning journey is defined by impactful experiences that shape not only a learner’s academic life but also their identity and sense of purpose. The Grade 5, Grade 8, and Grade 11 Impact Summits are three moments within this journey, offering learners the opportunity to explore, reflect, and present their work in a meaningful way. Innovating on the idea of a “Capstone” project, Impact Summits are a multifaceted body of work that serves as a culminating academic and intellectual experience, uniquely grounded in self-leadership, agency, and social capital. The pillars of self-leadership, agency, and social capital guide the Summits and ensure that students鈥 work is meaningful to self and consequential to others, fostering a deep sense of community and leadership.

Grade Level Progression

The Impact Summits are structured to reflect the developmental stages of the learners, with each grade’s experience designed to prepare students for the next academic and life phase.

Grade 5 Summit: A Foundation of Leadership

The Grade 5 Impact Summit introduces younger learners to the concept of leadership and purpose-driven learning. Building on the foundational work from earlier grades, Grade 5 begins by engaging in community walks and empathy interviews to explore how they can contribute to the world around them. Throughout the year, they develop a Purpose Statement that becomes their North Star as they move through the Lower School. By the end of the year, students reflect on their learning, write about their journey, and celebrate their growth through a celebration of learning event tied to their Bridging Ceremony, marking their readiness for Middle School.

This purpose statement follows a structured format, allowing students to articulate their impact: 鈥淏lank matters to me and is consequential to others because blank. I make an impact by being a blank (skill) while demonstrating blank (attribute).鈥

For instance, a Grade 5 student might choose a self-selected project as simple as improving their baseball swing or as meaningful as working on environmental conservation, like saving sea turtles. Regardless of the topic, the student’s Purpose Statement aligns their passions with real-world consequences, allowing them to see the broader impact of their work.

Grade 8 Summit: Refining Purpose and Research

In Middle School, students continue developing their portfolios and refining their Purpose Statements, which will guide their Grade 8 Summit. Throughout the year, students build on identity work done in and engage in preliminary research based on their interests. By Mod 3, they begin crafting a project that demonstrates their learning and purpose. Unlike large-scale presentations, the Grade 8 Summit offers an intimate setting where students present their work to small groups of mentors and peers, fostering deeper connections and reflective discussions.

For example, a Grade 8 student might express, 鈥淣utrition matters to me because I want to make healthy choices for my family, and I can impact others by being a responsible decision-maker.鈥

Grade 11 Summit: A Demonstration of Impact

In Upper School, the Summit becomes a more formalized 鈥渄efense鈥 of the student鈥檚 work. Grade 11 students participate in a Capstone course that prepares them to showcase their self-leadership, agency, and social capital after an intentional journey of reflection and exploration. This moment is designed to mirror real-world professional experiences as students present to a panel of peers, teachers, parents, and community members. The process culminates at the end of Mod Impact Summits where students showcase their work, allowing them to reflect on their journey and prepare for life after 糖心原创.

In addition to the presentations, 糖心原创 incorporates into the final product, ensuring that students produce both oral and written reflections of their learning. Lower School students write several-paragraph essays while Middle School writes a 3-4 page research paper and Upper School students craft a resume and personal narrative, further developing their communication and critical thinking skills.

Impact Ready Outcomes and 糖心原创’s Strategic Plan

Grade-level Impact Summits follow the intentional instructional design outlined by 糖心原创鈥檚 strategic plan, The , to prepare students for the complexities of life beyond school.

As detailed in Target 1 and the supporting strategic objectives, Impact Summits focus on ensuring learners are prepared to lead and contribute meaningfully to society. The Summits represent the culmination of this work- leveraging students鈥 attitudes, beliefs, and the networks they鈥檝e built along the way.

Each Summit reflects 糖心原创鈥檚 intentional design, where the ultimate goal is not just academic achievement but developing leaders ready to make a difference鈥攂oth within their own lives and in the wider world.

From developing leadership skills in Grade 5 to refining research and purpose in Grade 8, and defending real-world impact in Grade 11, 糖心原创鈥檚 Impact Summits serve as powerful milestones that prepare students to lead with purpose and contribute to a greater societal good. The intentional design of these experiences ensures that students not only excel academically but also emerge as impactful, self-led learners poised to navigate the challenges of the world.

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Redesigning the Iconic Alpha/Omega 糖心原创 Experience /blog/redesigning-the-iconic-alpha-omega-mount-vernon-experience/ Wed, 04 Sep 2024 14:44:20 +0000 http://localhost:10003/?p=44781 We believe in the power of connection鈥攊ntentionally linking the journeys of our youngest and oldest students through a 糖心原创 tradition we call Alpha & Omega. Most people recognize the iconic Alpha/Omega moment at Mustang Rally, our annual, all-school spring event when seniors walk hand in hand with (or carry) Preschoolers through the parade of...

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We believe in the power of connection鈥攊ntentionally linking the journeys of our youngest and oldest students through a 糖心原创 tradition we call Alpha & Omega. Most people recognize the iconic Alpha/Omega moment at , our annual, all-school spring event when seniors walk hand in hand with (or carry) Preschoolers through the parade of classes and participate in the always-anticipated piggyback race during the field games. These events are highlights, but the Alpha/Omega program is much more than these celebrated annual moments. This innovative partnership between the Preschool and Upper School creates a dynamic opportunity where mentorship and learning thrive.

Recognizing the potential for greater impact, Kate Canady, Head of Preschool, and Erin McCubbin, Executive Director of Student and Graduate Success, have redesigned the Alpha/ Omega experience this year to create more frequent and intentional opportunities for seniors and preschoolers to have consistent and meaningful connection moments. This year, senior advisories will be paired with Preschool classrooms and will visit the Lower Campus monthly as part of their advisory.

Throughout the year, Upper School students, known as the 鈥淏igs,鈥 will take on roles that extend beyond the events of Mustang Rally. From guiding preschoolers across campus to assisting with carpool and participating in special events, these interactions build lasting bonds. The program culminates in signature moments of Mustang Rally and the Senior Salute, where seniors make a symbolic final walk through the Lower Campus, celebrating the relationships they鈥檝e nurtured.

Since the beginning of this year, three successful volunteer opportunities have already been completed鈥攁nd many more to come. Two standout seniors, Kennedy Reynolds, and Amelia Bruening, have been at the forefront of this initiative and are a consistent presence at the Preschool. Their commitment, along with that of the entire Class of 2025, exemplifies the leadership, empathy, and community spirit that Alpha/Omega is all about.

The Alpha/Omega program is also a key example of 糖心原创鈥檚 strategic plan, . Target 2 of the plan focuses on relationships and networks, encouraging learners to traverse all dimensions of the community and fostering deep connections within the school. By prioritizing intentional interactions and cultivating a culture of mentorship, 糖心原创 is setting a new standard for how schools can innovate and inspire across generations.

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Creating Connections: How the Lower School Buddy Program is Building Belonging and Leadership /blog/creating-connections-how-the-lower-school-buddy-program-is-building-belonging-and-leadership/ Wed, 28 Aug 2024 13:08:45 +0000 http://localhost:10003/?p=44760 At 糖心原创, we believe in fostering an inclusive community where every student feels they belong. This year, Lower School launched the new Buddy Program, designed to support new Mustangs as they transition into our school community while also creating valuable leadership opportunities for returning students. Owen, a fourth-grade student new to 糖心原创 last...

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At 糖心原创, we believe in fostering an inclusive community where every student feels they belong. This year, Lower School launched the new Buddy Program, designed to support new Mustangs as they transition into our school community while also creating valuable leadership opportunities for returning students.

Owen, a fourth-grade student new to 糖心原创 last year, was a key influence in shaping the program. Owen asked if he could give Ms Hudson, the Director of the Lower School, feedback on his experience. They set up a formal meeting. Owen had a detailed agenda of his ideas. At the top of his list was a buddy system for the first weeks of school to ensure new Mustangs felt at home and had a person they could contact. Owen said, 鈥淟et鈥檚 make new kids feel like they had a person there just for them!鈥 After hearing from our New Families Committee Chair, Anne Freeman, and Owen, the Lower School team made their plan for the Lower School Buddy System this summer.

Fostering Leadership and Empathy

For returning students, the Buddy Program isn’t just about being a friend; it’s about stepping up as leaders and mentors. By becoming buddies, these students learn to embody 糖心原创’s attributes: integrity, empathy, adaptability, and grace. They take on the responsibility of helping new Mustangs navigate the school, making them feel welcomed and included. As one teacher noted, 鈥淚t鈥檚 wonderful to see our students take on these roles so seriously, demonstrating what it means to lead with integrity and empathy.鈥

Building a Culture of Grace

A significant aspect of the Buddy Program is teaching students to lead with grace. This means understanding that new students might not immediately know all the norms and customs of 糖心原创. 鈥淲e鈥檝e encouraged our buddies to give their new friends grace,鈥 said Molly Hudson. Both Ms Hudson and Ms Hayes explained, 鈥淚t鈥檚 our job to bring them along, to make sure they feel like they鈥檙e part of the community, even if they don鈥檛 get everything right away.鈥

A Sense of Belonging from Day One

From the very start of the school year, the Buddy Program has been creating meaningful connections. The first week of school saw buddies sitting together in class and at lunch, playing on the playground, and guiding each other through the day. The program has even extended beyond the school day, with some pairs arranging playdates and phone calls. To further strengthen these bonds, the school hosted a Buddy Lunch, where new students and their buddies gathered to share their experiences and get to know each other better, aided by conversation cards prepared by Ms. Hayes, Dean of Student Life on the Lower Campus.

To ensure the Buddy Program continues to meet the needs of our students, we鈥檝e built in moments for reflection and feedback. Each trimester, buddy pairs will come together for a special lunch, where they can discuss their experiences, express gratitude, and reflect on their time together. In November, the focus will be on what they are grateful for within the community, and at the end of the year, they will reflect on what they鈥檝e learned and suggest improvements for the program.

Looking Ahead

As we move forward, the Buddy Program will continue to evolve, guided by the feedback from our students. We are committed to making this an enduring part of the Lower School experience, helping new Mustangs feel at home while giving returning students the chance to lead with integrity, empathy, adaptability, and grace.

The Buddy Program is more than just a way to welcome new students; it鈥檚 about building a community where every Mustang feels they belong and has the opportunity to grow. We are proud of the positive impact this program is already having and look forward to seeing it continue to flourish.

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Creating a Culture of Belonging: The Power of Community at 糖心原创 Middle School /blog/creating-a-culture-of-belonging-the-power-of-community-at-mount-vernon-middle-school/ Wed, 21 Aug 2024 04:21:33 +0000 http://localhost:10003/?p=44748 In the Middle School, the concept of community is more than just a word鈥攊t’s a deeply ingrained part of the student experience, intentionally designed to foster a sense of belonging and guide students on their Journey of Purpose. 糖心原创 has crafted Community time as a cornerstone of its Middle School program, ensuring that students...

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In the Middle School, the concept of community is more than just a word鈥攊t’s a deeply ingrained part of the student experience, intentionally designed to foster a sense of belonging and guide students on their Journey of Purpose. 糖心原创 has crafted Community time as a cornerstone of its Middle School program, ensuring that students are supported, connected, and engaged throughout their day.

Many might be tempted to use the term 鈥渉ome room鈥 to describe the Community experience 鈥 but it’s a carefully curated experience bookending each day and providing a touchpoint in the middle of each day for every Middle Schooler. Students start their day with 30 minutes of Community, reconnect during a midday GTD (Getting Things Done) session, and close the day together. This intentional structure allows students to ground themselves, check in with peers and faculty, and prepare for the day ahead.

To gain deeper insight into how Community time shapes the Middle School experience, we sat down with two dedicated members of the Middle School team: Jordan Greenleaf, a new faculty member who also serves as the Varsity Head Coach for Girls’ Basketball, and Ashley Tabor, a veteran educator who has been with 糖心原创 for nearly a decade and is a beloved Middle School coach.

Building Relationships Through Engagement

For Jordan Greenleaf, who is new to 糖心原创, Community time has been an invaluable opportunity to connect with students on a personal level. “When I subbed for a Community class, we had a lot of engagement,” Jordan shared. “Students voiced their opinions about starting school, what they liked, what they were concerned about. It gave me a chance to learn about their interests, their sports, and their extracurricular activities. It鈥檚 a way for us to engage with them on their level and help them throughout the year.”

This engagement is central to the Community experience. By offering a safe space where students can build relationships, find a a trusted advisor or adult, express their thoughts, ask questions, and share their experiences. 糖心原创 fosters an environment where every student feels seen and heard.

Supporting Sixth Graders: A Gentle Transition

For sixth graders, who are new to the complexities of Middle School, Community time is particularly crucial. The transition from Lower School, where they had one primary teacher, to a more varied schedule can be overwhelming. Community time provides a consistent touchpoint where they can ask questions, find their way, and feel supported.

As Ashley Tabor explains, “Sixth graders often worry about getting lost or not knowing what class to go to. Community time allows them to take a moment and ask those questions, so they aren鈥檛 wandering around the school unsure of where they鈥檙e supposed to be. It鈥檚 about making sure they know they鈥檙e not alone.”

Laniey Grafton, a Grade 6 student described Community like this, 鈥淏eing with the people you love and working together as a team.鈥 Mathew Sveda, a fellow classmate, shared a similar thought, [Community is] having fun and learning about those in your class.鈥
Each grade level at 糖心原创 Middle School approaches Community time with a unique focus, tailored to the developmental needs of the students.

  • Eighth Grade: Students engage in themed discussions throughout the week, focusing on leading including “Mindful Monday,” and “Thoughtful Thursday.” These conversations help students explore purpose, and dialogue skills, building a foundation for thoughtful engagement and personal growth.
  • Seventh Grade: Inspired by Phyllis Fagell’s book “Middle School Super Powers,” seventh graders explore their values and superpowers, writing letters to their future selves that they revisit at the end of the year. This reflective practice helps students understand their journey and recognize their growth. Seventh grader, Milo Von Viergegge, shared [Community is] 鈥渁 space where you can grow and feel safe.鈥
  • Sixth Grade: The focus is on orientation and adjustment through the lens of the 糖心原创 attributes: Self-leadership, Empathy, Adaptability, Integrity, Curiosity, Creativity and Grace. Students discuss practical aspects of Middle School life, such as navigating schedules and managing lockers. Faculty members encourage students to celebrate small victories, like successfully opening a locker or finding their next class, reinforcing a sense of accomplishment and confidence. Grace Ahern, shared her Grade 6 experience in Community is like 鈥渁 family system and a place to support one another鈥

An integral part of the Community experience is the buddy system, especially for sixth graders. “Whether it鈥檚 a fellow student, a coach, or a floating faculty member, every student has a buddy,” Ashley Tabor notes. “You鈥檙e never alone at 糖心原创.”

This system helps new students navigate the challenges of Middle School and fosters a supportive environment where they can build friendships that last throughout their journey at 糖心原创.

Creating a Safe Space for Growth

Community time is not just about academics; it’s about creating a space where students can be themselves, let their guard down, and form meaningful connections. As Ashley shares, “Friendships formed in Community have strong foundations because these moments are intentionally carved out with faculty prompting questions and making it a safe space. This is our friendship family.”

The intentional design of Community time at 糖心原创 Middle School ensures that every student is part of a supportive network, where they can grow, explore their purpose, and build lasting relationships. Teddy Avgerinos, Grade 8, shared Community is, 鈥渁 place to gather together.鈥 and Viviene Serpas, summarized Community in one word, 鈥渇amily.鈥

Looking Forward: The Journey Continues

As the school year progresses, the emphasis on Community will continue to guide students on their Journey of Purpose. The seeds planted during these intentional moments will grow, helping students understand their value, develop their strengths, and make an impact on those around them.

At 糖心原创 Middle School, Community is more than just a period on the schedule鈥攊t’s a vital part of the fabric of the school, empowering students to thrive, connect, and embark on their Journey of Purpose.

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Welcoming Our 2024-2025 International Students: A Global Vision Realized /blog/welcoming-our-2024-2025-international-students-a-global-vision-realized/ Wed, 14 Aug 2024 14:55:22 +0000 http://localhost:10003/?p=44735 In 2020, 糖心原创 embarked on an ambitious partnership with The Dewey Schools (TDS) in Vietnam, driven by a forward-thinking vision: by the fall of 2024, students from Vietnam would be thriving alongside our Upper Campus students. This moment, years in the making, is the culmination of intentional planning, foresight, and a series of meaningful...

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In 2020, 糖心原创 embarked on an ambitious partnership with The Dewey Schools (TDS) in Vietnam, driven by a forward-thinking vision: by the fall of 2024, students from Vietnam would be thriving alongside our Upper Campus students. This moment, years in the making, is the culmination of intentional planning, foresight, and a series of meaningful connections, including the and two impactful Interim trips to Vietnam. Today, we celebrate a pivotal milestone that marks the beginning of an extraordinary journey for our school and our new international students.

To dive deeper into this transformational experience, we spoke with Thamara Trematerra, Associate Director of Global Initiatives/Upper School Teacher, and Ben Potter, Dean of Students for , who both shared insights about our visiting students and what their presence means for them and our community.

MV: Thamara, who do we have on campus this year?

Thamara: We鈥檙e thrilled to have four incredible students from Vietnam with us this year鈥擪ayla, Evelyn, Anh, and Lee (our only male student in this group). They鈥檙e all here to complete their senior year and graduate with us at 糖心原创. These students are not only academically focused but also deeply excited about experiencing life in the United States. They鈥檙e eager to succeed in this environment, make new friends, build connections, and learn about the college search process. And yes, they鈥檙e also very enthusiastic about discovering American culture鈥擳arget (the store) has already become a favorite!

MV: We understand that there are also several seniors from TDS enrolled in 糖心原创 Online (MSVO). How many online students are joining us?

Ben: This year, we are welcoming six seniors from Vietnam, among other students in the United States, who will be participating in our online program.

MV: For those who arrived in Atlanta, when did they get here?

Thamara: The students arrived on Monday, August 5, after nearly 24 hours of travel. They landed at Atlanta International Airport late in the evening, where Mrs. Dickerson and I were there to greet them. We brought them to campus, where they were warmly welcomed by their host families.

MV: Are the host families from the 糖心原创 community?

Thamara: Yes, the host family search was open to the entire 糖心原创 community, and we are fortunate to have Upper School families hosting our students. These families span three different grades鈥攁 current senior, two sophomores, and a rising freshman. It鈥檚 wonderful to see how our community has come together to support this initiative.

MV: Did Kayla, Evelyn, Anh, and Lee know each other before coming to 糖心原创?

Thamara: Yes, they鈥檙e all from the Ho Chi Minh City campus of TDS and were acquainted before their arrival.

MV: Will these students stay with their host families for the entire academic year?

Thamara: Absolutely, they鈥檒l be with their host families through graduation and will not be traveling home during breaks. The goal is for them to experience a complete cultural immersion.

MV: Will they participate in any programs?

Thamara: Yes, they鈥檒l be engaged in CORE, where they鈥檒l participate in internships or other local opportunities within the U.S.

MV: We heard that Lee had a memorable moment during the senior retreat. Can you tell us about it?

Thamara: During the senior retreat, we had a paintball competition, and Lee made it to the final rounds. The class all cheered for him. It was a significant bonding moment for him and the senior boys. Initially, our new students were quite shy, dealing with culture shock and adjusting to a new time zone. But it was heartwarming to see them open up, and even more so to see how welcoming our MV students were. The senior retreat, a fun and emotional start to the year, really brought everyone together. I鈥檓 incredibly proud of how our 糖心原创 students made the TDS and other new students feel welcome and included.

MV: How are the host families connecting with the students鈥 families in Vietnam?

Thamara: Our host families have been amazing, going above and beyond to make these students feel at home. They鈥檝e also done a fantastic job communicating with the families in Vietnam. We have several group chats going, and it鈥檚 great to see the cultural exchange and support happening between the families.

MV: Will the TDS students have opportunities to connect with our Lower and Middle School students?

Thamara: Definitely. These students will be fully immersed in our community鈥攖hey鈥檒l participate in the Mustang Rally, be paired as Alphas and Omegas, and engage in various activities, including their first American football game (watching the Mustangs on Ron Hill Field)! We also hope to partner them with Lower and Middle School students on projects. For now, our focus is on helping them settle into their new environment.

MV: Since they are seniors, will they be working with the College Counseling team?

Thamara: Yes, Aerial Dickerson, the other Associate Director of Global Initiatives, and Associate Director of Academic & College Counseling will guide both the Upper School TDS students as well as the six MVSO TDS students through the , both in the U.S. and internationally. This aspect of their time here is crucial as they explore potential college paths, write essays, and complete applications.

Our partnership with TDS reflects 糖心原创鈥檚 commitment to global educational outreach and offers unique benefits to our students. By engaging in this cross-cultural exchange, our students gain exposure to diverse perspectives and experiences, enriching their educational journey and preparing them for success in an interconnected world.

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