December and January were full of exciting activities, learning experiences, and community-building on campus at The Open School. Our students and families engaged in a variety of events that showcased our values of self-direction, collaboration, and curiosity.
In our Diploma Program, students participated in Career Day, where a panel of parents shared their career paths and experiences, providing inspiration for future possibilities. The Adventure Cohort continued its ongoing meetings, fostering teamwork, planning and problem-solving. The whole high school peer group also engaged in a meaningful discussion on values and personal growth.
Parents brought their expertise to the community through unique offerings. We had an engaging neuroanatomy and EEG demonstration and a hands-on workshop titled “Putting Together a Bad Day Kit.” In January, parents led additional workshops, including an introduction to American Sign Language and a session on gardening and permaculture.
Our student-led classes continued to thrive, with one of our students teaching Pre-Algebra. Other ongoing classes included Biology, Physics, and Math, providing students with diverse opportunities to explore their interests.
We now kick off the week with a Monday Morning meeting where announcements for community offerings, field trips and other pertinent information for the community are made. A new feature of the Monday Morning meetings is the Student Spotlight. In December and January, a student was in the spotlight and got to share a project or activity with the community.
December also featured a theatrical highlight with the student performance of “Hell’s Cafeteria” on December 19th. Students and families came together to enjoy the play, which showcased creativity, teamwork, and a lot of fun.
Daily Chore Time remained an important part of our routine, reinforcing shared responsibility and care for our space. Student leadership roles also take center stage, with students stepping up to contribute to school life in meaningful ways, including managing the Food Trolley, serving on committees, participating in shared decision making during School Meeting, and informally day-to-day around campus.
Field trips added to the excitement, with Monday Walks offering a chance to explore the outdoors. Other excursions included a trip to the Farmers Market in Old Town Tustin and a thrilling snow tubing adventure.
Our Idea Box continued to generate fun and thoughtful activities, such as baking treats for Wednesday Circle and a farewell celebration for Lily, our on-campus intern who has been an amazing member of our community since the fall of 2023 and will be greatly missed. While we are very sad to say goodbye to Lily, we are also excited to be welcoming a previous graduate, Colin, back to our community as an on campus intern.
Parent engagement remained strong, with Parent Circle meetings providing a space for discussion and support. In December, we wrapped up with a festive Membership Meeting and Holiday Party, where families gathered to celebrate, share updates, and hear exciting news from the Location Search Committee who announced the exciting step of entering a contract for a new school campus and the launch of the School Bond program to help fund this exciting new step.
As we move forward into the new year, we look forward to more learning, collaboration, and memorable experiences. Thank you to all the students, parents, and staff who make The Open School the amazing and vibrant community it is!
