On Tuesday, the MJDS staff and faculty returned to work eager to jump into the 2nd half of our school year. We started our day by asking, “If you had to pick one word to “live by” in 2018, what would it be?” Dr. Truding, our school consultant, had read a blog over break where several teachers asked themselves this very question. It is an amazing idea– pick one word to live by and apply it in all aspects of your life. This seems so simple and authentic compared to creating unrealistic new year resolutions.

It became very clear, very quickly, that this would be amazing to try with our kids. So, this week, we asked all upper school students to think of a word to live by for the rest of the school year. Of course, we shared our own words.

Adon Kaufman chose “patience” and explained that he would like to work on understanding peoples’ mindsets or backgrounds without getting angry or upset.

Geveret Binder chose “student,” because despite being a teacher, she would like to continue growing and learning from her students, peers and administrators this year.

My word is secure– be secure in what I do and why I do it and worry less about taking things personally.

Because our teachers showed honesty and vulnerability, the kids chose incredible words and were open and honest about their choices. We displayed all of their words in the hallway with the hope that the students will hold each other accountable for sticking to their words as well as find opportunities to support their friends in their efforts to attain this one word goal. 

Today 5th grade posted their words on their blogs. Please read your child’s word and encourage them every. single. day. to live by this word. It might be fun for you to pick a word too!