Head of School's Blog
Welcome Back!
Our work resumed Monday, January 6th, with staff focused on writing progress reports and preparing to welcome students back. My day started with warm greetings to the early birds in the building, followed by back-to-back meetings with Andrew, Charlie, Eric, Ann, and Courtney.
As we dive into the second half of the school year, we shift gears from laying the foundation to going deeper with our learning. For instance, on Tuesday, Tracey and Abby’s 1-2 class explored measurement in a truly Fayerweather way. Students created a power chain and measured its length using their bodies. Imagine the scene: kids lying on the floor, head to toe, giggling, sitting up occasionally to marvel at what they created. Of course, once the measuring was over, the students sprinted back to the classroom, leaving the chain behind, prompting Tracey to say, “Is the power chain going to walk itself back to the room?” The kids paused, reflected briefly, and promptly retrieved the power chain.
When I think back to my first- and second-grade days, my teachers would have said, “Go back and pick that up!” And most likely, we would never been allowed to spread our bodies in the hallway. No floor-measuring fun for us—just rulers and a lot less joy. Reflecting on these two approaches, which way sparks a lifelong love of learning and encourages thoughtful reflection? This is the power of our experiential learning approach–engaging all the senses and amplifying play to hook children into learning a concept like measurement.
As we head into the rest of the year, I am sharing a few key updates and highlights:
FSS Board Update
We are excited to unveil our 2025-2030 Strategic Plan! Join us in the gym for the FSS Community Board Meeting on Wednesday, January 15th, at 6:30 PM. There will be light refreshments. This plan reflects a year of collaboration and input from alumni, board members (past and present), parents, staff, and teachers. RSVP here—we’d love to see you there!
Community Board Meetings provide a platform for transparency, collaboration, and engagement. They allow us to align priorities, share updates, and demonstrate how decisions reflect shared values and goals. At this meeting, we’ll share our strategic direction for the next five years—a forward-looking plan shaped by our community’s collective aspirations.
Please note that this meeting is not intended for revisions or word-smithing of the plan, nor is the strategic plan a substitute for the operational efforts that occur daily, weekly, and yearly. Our strategic direction will continue to evolve as we respond to the needs and aspirations of our world and local community. We are looking forward to seeing you!
Academic Program & Operations Updates
- Curriculum Review: This year, we are diving into analyzing the scope and sequence of our science and writing curriculum. Led by Lauren M. and Andrew, staff are documenting our science, writing, art, maker space, library, and PE curriculum while exploring the latest research and analyzing overlaps, gaps, and student impact in our science and writing curriculum.
- Professional Development: In March, several science teachers will attend the For the Love of Science Education conference hosted by the National Science Teaching Association in Philadelphia. Special shoutout to Anna Grant, a participant on the Early Childhood and Elementary Science Committee, which is new to the NSTA.
- AI Task Force: Ray and Andrew are launching an AI Task Force to develop responsive, nimble policies for using AI in education at FSS. We will participate in an initial training hosted by ISM on the implications of AI.
Security Advisory Team
Led by me, this team includes Charlie, Rob, Emily, Andrew, Bran, Garrett, and Anna. We will meet monthly to identify and guide ongoing training, drills, and protocols that keep us physically safe and aware. Over the past two years, we have enhanced building security through upgrades like perimeter cameras, protective glass, and an outdoor intercom and key fob system. To the extent possible, we require all visitors to the building to sign in.
Annual Fund Launch
Our Annual Fund kicks off next week! Your generosity fuels our innovative, responsive, and vibrant education that defines Fayerweather. Participation is key, so please give as you can—every contribution matters, and your commitment is key to our success. Please look forward to hearing from us next week.
Looking Ahead
On behalf of the PCA, I invite you to participate in the chapter discussion on Friday, January 17th, at 8:45 AM at FSS. I have attached a copy of the chapters that will frame our discussion. Permission To Feel: Unlock the Power of Emotions to Help Yourself and Your Child Thrive by Professor Marc Brackett, and Why Will No One Play with Me? The Play Better Plan to Help Children of All Ages Make Friends and Thrive by Caroline Maguire. It is also okay if you do not have time to read the chapters. The discussion will be fruitful.
There’s plenty of work to be done and things to accomplish. Your partnership strengthens our community and broadens Fayerweather’s reach and impact. Thank you for showing up—in pickup lines, All School Meetings, hallways, or classrooms, and with and for other caregivers and parents. We sincerely appreciate the ways you support our mission every day.
In partnership,
Kim
Fayerweather Street School | 765 Concord Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02138 | 617-876-4746
Fayerweather is a private PreK, kindergarten, elementary and middle school. We engage each child’s intellect.