The Fellowship's Impact on Seattle Hebrew Academy
Fellows: Gail Ben-Meir, Sharon Mezistrano and Sarah Zolan
"Excellence is not a destination; it is a continuous journey that never ends." –Brian Tracy
At SHA, we are honored to have participated in this unique opportunity for learning and growth, led by renowned educator, Diana Ganger. Diana’s leadership affords us many benefits as we collectively discuss many aspects of what excellence looks like, all within the context of a Jewish lens. One of the significant ways we have enriched our craft is by studying emotionally responsive practice and how it can best be implemented in all of our student, teacher and parent interactions. After all, emotionally responsive practice forms the foundation for students’ optimal learning experiences.
We inform our practice with knowledge about children’s developmental stages and students’ relevant life experiences. Strong teacher-child relationships are critical for students to thrive. We have learned that the use of responsive language helps students feel understood and valued. Responsive language means communicating with empathy and respect for the child. Another essential piece is the importance of forming and maintaining quality relationships between educators and parents. These relationships build bridges between the home and school that further strengthen students’ growth and development. In reflecting and planning for our students’ needs, our curriculum is influenced by each student’s abilities and interests and is constantly evolving based on assessment of what is most beneficial to students’ well-being. Integrating Jewish ideas and core values into our curriculum is part and parcel of who we are.
As we complete the second year of the Fellowship, we know our professional development is not finished. We look forward with anticipation for increased learning opportunities and much growth as we continue on our journey!
"Excellence is not a destination; it is a continuous journey that never ends." –Brian Tracy
At SHA, we are honored to have participated in this unique opportunity for learning and growth, led by renowned educator, Diana Ganger. Diana’s leadership affords us many benefits as we collectively discuss many aspects of what excellence looks like, all within the context of a Jewish lens. One of the significant ways we have enriched our craft is by studying emotionally responsive practice and how it can best be implemented in all of our student, teacher and parent interactions. After all, emotionally responsive practice forms the foundation for students’ optimal learning experiences.
We inform our practice with knowledge about children’s developmental stages and students’ relevant life experiences. Strong teacher-child relationships are critical for students to thrive. We have learned that the use of responsive language helps students feel understood and valued. Responsive language means communicating with empathy and respect for the child. Another essential piece is the importance of forming and maintaining quality relationships between educators and parents. These relationships build bridges between the home and school that further strengthen students’ growth and development. In reflecting and planning for our students’ needs, our curriculum is influenced by each student’s abilities and interests and is constantly evolving based on assessment of what is most beneficial to students’ well-being. Integrating Jewish ideas and core values into our curriculum is part and parcel of who we are.
As we complete the second year of the Fellowship, we know our professional development is not finished. We look forward with anticipation for increased learning opportunities and much growth as we continue on our journey!
"Understanding the value of empathy is something I learned in the Fellowship." |
"The Fellows have become a small family of teachers, directors, and leaders who will continue to impact the greater Seattle area through early childhood education." |
"This has resulted in common language not just for the younger grade levels and preschool, but also for the whole school." |