October 18 Home Communicator – Unplugged
Unplugged. Occasionally, we hear this term spoken or see it written down. Unplugged can be taken literally, like unplug your electronic device. Unplugged can be interpreted figuratively, defining acoustic guitar players, such as Eric Clapton. Unplugged can describe schools of thought, encouraging kids to play outside. Unplugged.
Unplugged has taken on a new definition at Hudsonville Christian Middle School this fall. Unplugged describes the time we have gifted our students to use for reading, just reading. Analyzing our MAP data, observing the pace of kids’ lives outside of school, watching the trend of shrinking independent reading in middle school students, and understanding that reading volume increases reading achievement, the teachers at HCMS decided to make reading a priority. We understand that reading well benefits our students in many ways: high stakes testing, college success, informed citizenship, and enjoyment.
Unplugged time at school has already started to create a community of readers at HCMS. Just this morning, I had a conversation with a cheerful member of my Unplugged group. “Mrs. Spotts, I read more this weekend than normal. My book is so good!” Music to my ears!
Unplugged. Might this also describe what’s most important? “Be still and know that I am God.” Do our kids see us take this seriously? How often do we unplug and have family or personal devotions? How much time do we take to unplug and read The Word from The One, instead of scanning our Twitter, Facebook, or Snapchat?
Unplugged. Hudsonville Christian wants to partner with you to be present and unplug at school and at home. Take time to “Be Still” with no distractions. Unplugged.
Sincerely,
Sue Spotts, Director of Instruction
