This episode dives into how the "Engineer Your World (EYW)" curriculum is engaging high school students in authentic engineering experiences and inspiring them to embrace an engineer’s habits of mind. Laura Beachum and I along with mentoring EYW teachers and faculty from the University of Texas at Austin explore the challenges students face when they encounter new concepts for the first time, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, teamwork, reflection and perseverance in overcoming discomfort. We all reflect upon our own experiences from a recent EYW Professional Development Summer Institute and how Laura and I plan to implement the human-centered engineering projects at Detroit Country Day School. The discussion highlights the necessity of creating a supportive environment where students can thrive and learn from failure, reinforcing the idea that education is not just about finding the right answers but about the journey of discovery and understanding. Join us as we unpack practical strategies that bring brain science to life in the classroom and make learning meaningful for every student.

Today, we are celebrating Stacy Penkala, a beloved figure in Detroit Country Day School's Counseling Program. Stacy reflects on her nearly three decades of experience, reminding us that every student deserves to feel seen and valued. Our guests, Andrew Callery and Josh Greenwald from the Detroit Country Day School College Counseling Department, share their insights on building meaningful relationships with students, emphasizing that it’s not just about getting into college but about understanding each student’s unique story and aspirations. We dive into the evolving landscape of college counseling with a focus on how personal connections make all the difference for students navigating their academic journeys. We all discuss the shift from a transactional approach to one that prioritizes individual growth and self-discovery, highlighting the importance of knowing students beyond their academic achievements. Join us as we explore how this relational depth is crucial in today’s educational environment, ensuring that school truly matters for every student.

Takeaways:

• In today's digital age, fostering deep relationships with students remains crucial for meaningful growth and learning experiences.
• The shift from a transactional college counseling approach to a relational one helps students become the storytellers of their own academic journeys.
• Starting college counseling in ninth grade allows students to develop their identities and skills before they enter the college application process.
• Every student defines success differently, which encourages a more tailored approach to college counseling, focusing on their individual needs and aspirations.

Today, we are exploring the transformative power of the Global Exchange Program at Detroit Country Day School, highlighting how immersion can ignite a passion for language acquisition and cultural understanding. Our guests, including upper school French teacher Liz Lebovic, Spanish teacher Fernanda Gabaldon, and recent alumna Megan Kenny, share personal insights about their experiences and the profound impact these exchanges have on students. Megan reflects on her own journey from hesitance to enthusiasm as she prepares for her upcoming study abroad trip to Valencia, Spain, inspired by her previous exchange. We discuss how such programs not only enhance language skills but also foster lasting relationships and cultivate a deeper appreciation for diverse cultures. Join us as we unpack the invaluable lessons learned through these immersive experiences and how they shape students into global citizens ready to navigate an interconnected world.

Takeaways:

• The importance of immersion in language learning was highlighted by Megan's experience in Spain, emphasizing how real-life interactions can enhance fluency.
• Megan's journey reflects the transformative power of participating in exchange programs, leading to a deeper understanding of cultural nuances and language acquisition.
• The Global Exchange Program at Country Day fosters open-mindedness and cultural perspectives among students through immersive experiences.
• In addition to building language skills, global exchange programs also build empathy, resilience, and a global perspective in students.
• Megan's enthusiasm for studying abroad illustrates the lasting impact of early exposure to different cultures and languages on students' academic paths.