Guest post by Henry Thiele, Superintendent, District 99 (IL): Most of us are in full preparation mode for the school year ahead. As we do this work, I challenge you to reflect on the complete student experience. Consider how academic and social-emotional expectations will be supported through the strategies and tools you offer. Before students return and the pressure is really on, prepare yourself to be an essential part of each student's experience. Supporting the whole child requires both a scientific and artistic approach to understanding student needs while designing learning experiences. Take a moment to read this whole child approach and reflect on what areas of your practice already support these ideals and where you might improve. Prepare for this year in a way that ensures every student will have a positive experience, where they know you care for them, and they believe they have the ability to grow. Start determining how you will know if students are succeeding, what you will do if things are not going as expected, and how you will celebrate with each student as they demonstrate their accomplishments. As we know, today's preparation leads to next school year's success.
