AIMS Heads' Conference

I just returned from the Association of Independent Schools (AIMS) Annual Heads' Conference. A two-day meeting in Annapolis, this gathering affords heads of school across the state the opportunity to discuss issues of mutual interest, to celebrate successes, and to hear from outside experts. I always look forward to seeing my AIMS colleagues, whether they are from schools in Baltimore, near DC, or on the Eastern Shore. The AIMS Heads are an exceptionally collegial group; I often call a fellow Head to ask for his or her advice, and they do the same, when needed. This year's speakers were excellent: noted author Winifred Gallagher explained the many benefits of "focus" and reflection for both children and adults, and Joanne Ciulla, Professor in Leadership and Ethics at the Jepson School of Leadership Studies at the University of Richmond, led a lively seminar on the relationship--and tensions--between effective and ethical leadership. Dr. Ciulla, who discussed the many different kinds of power (expert, legitimate, reward and punishment, network, and referent) challenged the Heads to contemplate the following question: "Do I know who I am, and do I remember what I know?"

A Great Picture

The picture below epitomizes the expression, "A picture is worth a thousand words."

Spring is Finally Here

In the span of the last week, we have had some bizarre weather, both hot and cold. It seems like spring is finally here on campus, with clear, blue skies and almost perfect temperatures. I was walking along the path by Molly's Garden today and took the two pictures below with my BlackBerry. Imagine how pretty the Garden is in person...stop by and see for yourself!

Calvert's Got Talent

Calvert faculty members are continually looking for additional ways to showcase our students' many talents and abilities. Two examples of new events this year are the Sixth Age play in May and today's inaugural Tenth Age Performing Arts Exposition. The Tenth Age show was a huge success, as 33 members of the class chose to participate! Students displayed an amazing array of talents, including dancing, singing solo and in a group, and playing the piano, drums, and guitar. Mozart, Taylor Swift, Star Wars theme music, Miley Cyrus, Bach, and the Beatles...you name it, we heard it today! We believe strongly that overall communication skills are critically important, and performing in front of a few hundred people certainly enhances confidence, public speaking, and "stage presence." Kudos and thanks to Mrs. Holt and Mrs. Elliott for their time, organizational efforts, and coaching. The "artists" had a wonderful time, as did the family members and students in attendance.

It's About the Students' Work

For over a century, Calvert has emphasized high-quality, corrected student work at all grade levels. A representative sample of that work is then sent home at regular intervals, either monthly or quarterly depending on the grade level. We believe that student work is more important than anything found in a textbook. Yesterday, I sat down with a 6th Age homeroom and reviewed their "Pizza Box Portfolios," and today, I sat down with some 5th Graders and looked at their portfolios. Although the contents of the portfolios were quite different, there was a similar enthusiasm for learning and a common pride in a job well-done. Being able to review students' work each month in a one-on-one setting is one of the most important--and rewarding--parts of my job.