In just a few short days the campus will grow quieter as we head off to summer break (well, that's not exactly true as we will be hosting Decathlon Summer Sports camp here all summer). Summer break serves as the transition between the end of a successful year of learning and the build-up to exciting things to come for the next school year.
One of the aspects I enjoy most about summer is the opportunity to "slow down" a bit. And, during these restful times, my summer reading list gets serious attention. One book I highly recommend to put on your summer reading list, is called Mindset by Carol S. Dweck. The book's basic premise is that people can fulfill their unlimited potential simply by adopting a growth mindset. The opposite of a growth mindset is a fixedmindset; one that pre-determines expectations. A growth mindset allows individuals to improve in all areas of their lives because it sets within a person the notion that every thing can be learned and improved upon with hard work and effort. The impact of this concept is obvious in education. It helps us work with the child who says, "I'm no good at math" (a definite fixed mindset). This book is a great read for educators, parents, or anyone. I have found great value in it in my own personal life and I recommend it as a summer read. In fact, I bought a copy for all of Springer's teachers.
I want to wish all of the Springer community a wonderful summer. I also want to give thanks for all that you do to make Springer a special place. It is truly an honor to be principal of such an outstanding community, filled with dedicated, caring, and gifted people who give so much for the betterment of our students.
Have a great summer.
Sincerely,
Wade