Target 3: Flexible Learning Environments – FWSU will maximize flexible learning environments by redefining the school day, promoting learning experiences that extend beyond the school classroom, and fostering creativity, innovation, and differentiated learning opportunities for all.
Action Step – Provide students w/ access to content, resources, and methods for learning beyond the school day and beyond the school walls.
FES students tremendously enjoyed being able to participate in five Winter Wellness Afternoons, alongside their teachers, parents, and committed community members – held both on and off school grounds. With the coming of spring, students reflected back on their wellness activities which is an important aspect of learning.
It has been a long-standing tradition for FES students and families to go to Smugglers’ Notch Resort to learn to ski or snowboard. As the years go by, many students in the program are able to experience intermediate and expert terrain.
Students who stayed at school, enjoyed extended time outside to snowshoe, ice-skate, or collaborate using use snow bricks and shovels to building snow sculptures.
At the mountain, great excitement comes on Sir Henry’s Learning Hill where students’ are able to engage in gaining new skills. Students go from nervous to proud in a matter of minutes!
And there’s something magical about that very first chairlift ride!
Working together to put on snowshoes, tie ice-skates, maneuver as a group into new settings, interact with parents and other community members, and try out new skills in varying weather conditions builds self-esteem and social skills in the context of physical activity. Seeing experienced students helping the younger or less-experienced students strengthens our community!
Parent volunteers are an essential ingredient. The partnership between the volunteers and school staff makes this winter wellness program a great success!
Although snow has left us for this year (we hope!) and a new spring has come, FES students will remember the exciting winter wellness adventures they shared together and look forward to next year!
The FWSU Story 