At tomorrow’s Friday assembly we will highlight C-O-M-M-U-N-I-T-Y! 

In doing so, participants will view an interaction between a teacher and myself where we brainstorm ideas by asking the question, “How might we build an even stronger Almond community together?”  In the first brainstorming round, the question is systematically answered with, “Yes, but…”  In the second round, the question is answered with, “Yes, and…”  Ideas come to fruition through a series of stages.  The very first step in the forming process is brainstorming.  During this phase, it’s critical to maintain an open mind so that all possibilities have the opportunity to be considered.  When we work together as a community to build upon ideas, the outcomes are powerful.  I encourage each of us to try this just for one day.  Instead of responding with “yes, but…,” try “yes, and…” to see what that line of thinking yields.

In regards to one answer to building a stronger Almond community, we ask for your continued support with STEM.  Our Tinker Club is a hit!  A student commented to me today that he couldn’t problem solve a conflict he had experienced because “I have Tinker Club and I don’t want to miss it.”  (We found another time to work through the issue.)  To ensure the ongoing success of the Tinker Club, we are seeking the donation of the following items (in the office):  paper towel and toilet paper rolls, rubber bands of all sizes, Post-Its, duct tape of any color or design, pipe cleaners, and popcorn kernels.  These items will be used by students to prototype musical instruments.  Keep your eyes peeled on Twitter to see the creations that come forth!

On the operational front, for families that celebrate religious holidays not observed through our typical days off, please submit to the office an advanced, written request to have that absence excused. 

I leave you with this closing thought adapted from Tina Seelig’s book inGenius, “[our] ideas – big and small – are the critical starting point for innovations that propel us forward.”  I look forward to growing as a community together and welcome your ideas in this process.