From the Principal…
In times past, schools focused on the 3 R’s. Now what is troubling about that is how a focus on reading, writing and arithmetic instill the importance of great skill development when two of the three R’s are misspelled? That is just one of those things that make me go hmmmmmm…
We are focusing on the 3 R’s but with a 21st Century spin. Our focus at Fox Ridge is on Rigor, Relevance and Relationships. All three are essential for the growth and development of students in preparation for continued education. We created this school with the belief that rigorous academic experiences are essential for all students. To accomplish this we utilize the Parallel Curriculum Model, an instructional model used in gifted and talented programs. This is not a packaged curriculum but an instructional delivery model that focuses on providing rigorous instruction for students by guiding them to approach their learning as practioners (mathematicians, scientists, writers, historians, artists, architects, etc.) in the field rather than as students of the information. Our instructional model and all of the professional development we are doing with our teachers focus on providing the highest level of academic rigor for all students and then providing support and enrichment for students to achieve at the highest level possible.
As we are working to help students to develop the academic skills necessary to succeed in high school and beyond, it is essential that the curriculum is relevant to not just the needs of students now but in preparation for their success in the 21st Century. Our guiding vision has always been that the students who pass through Fox Ridge Middle School enter high school believing they can learn anything, are focused on their futures, are secure in themselves as individuals, and respect the diversity in others. We anticipate that the high school AP / IB classes will be diversely populated and the default for students because they will leave us prepared for and craving the rigor inherent in these programs.
The best teaching is not only head-to-head but also heart-to-heart. Our expectation is that we model kindness at all times. Our cornerstones of Excellence, Respect, Kindness, Integrity, Safety and Responsibility are the foundations that shape all of our interactions. It is imperative that our students know that the adults here are committed to their individual and collective success. The relationships that the students develop with other students and with the staff will enhance their middle school experiences.
These standards guide all of our instructional decisions, our interactions with one another, the guidelines and practices we employ and the experiences that our students enjoy while enrolled at Fox Ridge. They shaped the hiring decisions that I have made as principal and will continue to make as we grow. This is a unique opportunity that I am honored to share as we grow and watch our community grow around us. I invite you to visit our school, see the magic that happens daily in our classes and experience Fox Ridge.
Welcome to Fox Ridge!
Tracey Grant
Principal