Headlines - Cheryl Boughton's Blog

It’s hard to believe that Winterim is over. After six months of planning, our two-day experiential education program was a hit. Our students explored new ideas, learned new skills, made new friends and had a good time. We couldn’t be more delighted with the outcome.

Winterim has deep pedagogical roots. We know that experiential education is incredibly valuable to students. As one parent quoted Benjamin Franklin on our live blog, “Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.” That is exactly what we saw over the past two days at Elmwood—genuine involvement and learning.

One Junior School student who was involved in Baking 101 said, as she looked at her oatmeal muffins, “I loved the process. I’m happy with my final product, but it was the process that mattered.” I thought this was especially profound because baking is often all about the final product! She then proceeded to share all her baking with her classmates that were involved in other Winterim activities.

I am certain that all of our students will transfer what they learned about the learning process itself back to their traditional subjects. This is as essential part of being an IB school and I believe that Winterim complemented our IB philosophy very well.

My thanks go to all the Elmwood faculty and staff involved in this event. It was an enormous undertaking and I am pleased that, as is always the case, our faculty and staff rose to the challenge. We are lucky to have such a wonderful team of professionals. I would like to particularly thank our Deputy Head, Ms. Kate Angell, for her superb planning of the whole event. We couldn’t have done it without her.

I look forward to our Winterim Assembly tomorrow where I will get a chance to see the final products of many of our groups. I can hardly wait!

Cheryl

One of Elmwood’s most memorable occasions, our Father Daughter Dinner Dance, is nearly here. I, for one, can’t wait! It’s one of Elmwood’s unique traditions for our Grade 6-12 students and their fathers or special guests. There are so few opportunities in this busy world we live in for daughters to spend quality time with their Dads—the most important VIPs in their lives. I am certainly looking forward to bringing my Dad and spending some time with him.

I am particularly excited to be trying out a new venue—the Hampton Inn. I’ve been there for a number of other events in their Main Ballroom and they have all been spectacular, with excellent food and attentive service. There’s plenty of space for all our guests and a roomy dance floor too. The girls are sure to feel like they’re in the Kodak Theatre, rubbing elbows with the stars!

I’ve had some inside information from one of the committee members about the decor. From the paparazzi, to the fabulous fashions, to the red carpet, it sounds like the Oscars theme will be really impressive with plenty of opportunities for the “movie star” experience. It is sure to be a night to remember.

Before I close, I would like to say a special thank you to the committee of parents and students who have worked so hard to make this event happen. If it weren’t for the dedication of our Parents’ and Friends’ Association Committee (PFAC) we would not have the opportunity to attend such wonderful events. They really do go above and beyond!

So if you plan to join us on February 4th, you need to sign up as soon as possible. You can find details about the event by clicking here.

See you on the red carpet,

Cheryl

It’s hard to believe that the term has come to an end. The final act has performed in our holiday assembly. The girls are getting on their coats ready to depart for the holiday break. I think you’ll agree, this has been a very successful fall for Elmwood.

Our girls have excelled themselves in every way. From Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12, each girl tried her best and has moved a little closer to reaching her full potential. We are very proud of them all.

I’m on my way to our Recent Grad Reunion, but before I do I’d like to thank each of you for your contribution to the community. It’s the people of Elmwood that make it such a special place and I appreciate your various contributions.

I hope you and your family enjoy a wonderful break together and I wish you many blessings in coming the New Year.

Warm regards,
Cheryl