3 Scoop Ice Cream: Academics, Cognitive and Social-Emotional

As I wrote last spring, new research exploring the neuroscience of reading has stirred the debate over how best to teach our children to read. At the forefront of the discussion is Dr. Maryanne Wolf, an internationally-known researcher, teacher, and advocate for children’s literacy, who I had the fortune of learning from as a graduate student. I recently sat down with Maryanne to get her reaction to the current dialogue around the science of reading.

In that first year of teaching at Carroll, I thought a lot about what drove their relentless optimism and persistence, neither of which are necessarily taught in teacher education programs. What leads them to work so hard for these kids? Slowly, I began to realize. The ineffable factor—the thing that really ignites learning with students—was, and is, their mindset.

Increasingly, restorative practices are being used in schools across the country as a powerful community-building tool. Not only do they offer an effective complement to traditional disciplinary measures, they help students to build important communication and relationship skills. At Carroll, we began exploring the use of restorative practices several years ago ... Dr. Renée shares how it's going and how it fits into Carroll's mission.

Recently, Stella Grossman, a sixth grader, and Jay Rubenstein, a fourth grader, sat down with Renée to share their thoughts on a range of Carroll topics. Not only do their insights affirm Carroll’s mission, they remind us of the very lives and families we have the privilege of touching—even transforming. 

More than half of Carroll’s student population has Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and/or executive function (EF) challenges, in addition to a language-based learning difference (LBLD). Often, it’s hard to tell which one is at play. How can parents and educators make sense of it all? Clinical psychologist Dr. Sharon Saline answers a few of Dr. Renée Greenfield's questions.

Bryan Perla ‘14 attended Carroll School from 5th to 9th grade. Recently, he sat down with Head of School Renée Greenfield to discuss his journey from a student with dyslexia to a successful entrepreneur and dyslexic thinker.

What is my role as a Carroll parent? What can or should I do to support my child? I’m asked this question often, particularly among families new to our community. I’m happy to provide a concrete answer.

At Carroll, our approach to parent-teacher conferences is purposeful and straightforward, and leads to some pretty impactful conferences and, in turn, student outcomes. Learn how conferences are designed to support students throughout the school year and beyond.

What’s the best way to teach kids how to read? The reading debate has been simmering for decades. Recently, thanks to a newly named body of research exploring the science of reading, it has captured news headlines. Don’t get me wrong. I’m delighted by today’s energized discussion over how best to teach kids to read. It’s one of the most important conversations we can have as a nation. Here's what I'd like us to pay attention to instead.