Can you believe the first half of this year has gone? I know we say that each year, but this year seems to be marching by extra fast. As I reflect on the year so far, I find it easy to get caught up in the what is not quite right or what is inconvenient, or not happening as I would like. Then I stop, grab myself mentally and go, “What is the big picture here?” I ask myself, “How are we going to get over, under, round or through the challenges before us right now, to get the best for our kids?” That is not always easy to do, especially when challenges fly at us in large numbers. Some of you may have heard of the work of a lady by the name of Carol Dweck. She has researched and written extensively around the idea of a Growth Mindset. She argues a Growth Mindset allows us to embrace challenge, persist in the face of setbacks, learn from criticism and find lessons in the success of others (Dweck, 2017) She also discusses an alternative mindset called a Fixed Mindset which is far more restrictive.

Dweck’s model jumped into my mind last night as I wandered around school and saw parents talking with teachers about children’s learning. How do we fuel our children’s thoughts about learning? Do we encourage them to embrace challenge, persist when facing a setback, see effort as the path to mastery, have them learn from feedback, and draw on and find lessons in the success of others? I really hope we do, both parents and educators. The reason I say this, is that the research suggests that if we do, our children are more likely to achieve more and be more likely to reach their potential. It’s like the Bible character Joshua writes, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9

As the term draws to a close, I would like to say thank you to you all, parents and staff, for going the extra mile for our children. I see in their eyes, hear in their interactions, singing and play, that they feel your love and support.

I look forward to seeing the students back on July 23 for Term 3 and the wonderful things in store,  like Science Week, Book Week, Choir Performances, International Students, Concert and so much more.

Have a great couple of weeks with your kids,

Mark B