This week I have been thinking about the benefit to Clairbourn students when they feel a sense of belonging. I walk around campus and see the band and string students working in their groups to make music, the athletes joining efforts to play a sport, and the Student Council planning fun activities for the campus. Others join the drama productions, service activities, and math or science leagues. Still others join off campus chess clubs, debate teams, equestrian activities, and dance troupes. Almost any group will do to give a sense of belonging. The benefits to the group and the members are mutual. The group members get assurances that others care about them and support them, and it drives a sense of responsibility for the other members in the group. 

 

When we are learning a new skill for a sport, a performing art, or an academic club, it encourages our willingness to try and fail and try again when we know others around us are supportive and want us to succeed. It is more than just being nice. When each member of the group is successful, the group as a whole is stronger. So it is in each member’s best interest to help, encourage, and support members through the learning process. It is also in each member’s best interest to work to grow and progress themselves, not only  for the good of themselves but the good of the group. There is group benefit in individual progress.

 

The same is true in being a member of a family. The family unit is stronger when all members are making progress. At Clairbourn, we have many parts of our Clairbourn Family.  We have grade level families, the CFA family, the employee family, and the whole school family. At Clairbourn we love to celebrate each other’s progress and growth because it is great for the individual and at the same time makes the community stronger. This is a great lesson in Heart and is part of our values of Citizenship and Responsibility. 

 

So let’s all continue celebrating each step in progress, not just the major awards. Congrats to each Cougar who has continued to put forth effort this year and has learned to write a little better, solve problems that are a little harder, create art that is a little more beautiful, and gain strength in our athletic efforts. The progress is great for each student, and it makes the whole Clairbourn Family stronger.  Way to show Heart, Cougars!

Did your student win an award, learn a new skill, make something cool, have an adventure, or do a service project? We'd love to post it in the eCourier!

 

Email Jeanette Zamora at jzamora@clairbourn.org with the details including a photo or video if you have one.