“I can’t do this.” These were the words I recently heard a student say when I was in their classroom. The student felt overwhelmed- they were tasked with a challenge that felt difficult and overwhelming to them. Thankfully, this student’s teacher overheard and responded quickly and calmly- “I believe in you, I know you can do it.” The student kept at it, and through patience, teacher guidance, and group work, eventually figured out the task.
Our teachers at HCS work diligently in helping students establish a positive growth mindset- an openness to learning and growing, and the stamina to push through when things feel difficult. Another teacher I observed recently was guiding her students in identifying the difference between a growth mindset and a fixed mindset. Students laughed as they quickly identified fixed mindset scenarios- clearly seeing how those wouldn’t help them grow. They followed up by practicing a growth mindset in their conversations as they listened intently to their peers, and offered positive encouragement to their partners as they shared books they were reading. The authentic, encouraging conversations coming from the mouths of young students were contagious.
The words of Ephesians 4:29 came to mind as I observed this- “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” God is using teachers and students at HCS to encourage a growth mindset in all of us, reminding us to build each other up and offer support when we are faced with difficulties. I wonder how many times we personally face difficult challenges and want to give up- feeling like we simply can’t tackle something because we feel overwhelmed or it feels hard. How many times does our Master Teacher hear our hearts and remind us that He has given us the strength to endure challenges that come our way? Just as we remind our students at HCS, may we all be challenged to continue to grow, being confident that He who has begun a good work in us will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ!
Partnering with you,
Jen Rysdam, Curriculum Director
