February Principal's Update

Team QUEST,

I had to look at the calendar when writing this post. What happened to winter? Regardless of what mother nature is doing on the outside, our school is staying quite busy ensuring high levels of learning for each student. Not only that, but we also were able to squeeze in the beloved Sled Race just in time for the snow to melt. At your convenience, please take the time to review the many updates provided.

Portfolio Share? When and Why?

QUEST aims to have students be agents of their own learning. One way we accomplish this is through a portfolio share. In late February, or early/mid-March, teachers have students share a portfolio with their parents. This is accomplished in many ways: the child may bring home the portfolio to share and work with you on reflecting; the teacher may request a Zoom or a conference with the home where the child will share; in some cases a child may make something digital. 

Regardless of the sharing method, the goal stays the same: the students reflect on their learning, their goals, and show evidence of growth toward their goals. This ownership is part of how we foster agency. Please join me in celebrating growth this month as your child shares their portfolio with you. 

Student Action

Speaking of agency, QUEST students take action! Is there an action that your family took to tackle a local or global issue? Or, has there been any volunteerism that your child has done or that you have done as a family? In the spirit of taking action, I would encourage you to share any action with Mr. Greg Booth (gbooth@hilton.k12.ny.us), our IB Coordinator. Our school currently has a display that highlights student actions, and wow are there some great ones! Check it out the next time you are in, but in the meantime, keep sending those actions in! 

Enjoy the blog this month. As always, please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions. 

Yours in Education,

Derek 

QUEST Principal