We had a wonderful start to the school year, welcoming students back with intentional team building that cascaded from our leadership team to staff and ultimately to our students.

Our leadership team began by participating in a collaborative team building activity that emphasized the importance of clear communication. Recognizing the power of this experience, we modified the activity for our staff during our welcome back session. Teachers engaged in the exercise and explored themes particularly focusing on the conversations between those who were blindfolded and those who could see. Staff reflected on how this dynamic mirrors the instructional process using feedback to guide and support student learning. Inspired by their own experience, teachers then adapted the activity for their students. In classrooms across the building, students participated in the blindfold challenge, working together as teams where one person was blindfolded while others provided guidance. Students discussed the importance of listening carefully, communicating clearly, and trusting one another to achieve a common goal.

This intentional progression from leadership to staff to students reinforced our shared commitment to collaboration, communication, and using feedback to drive growth. It was a powerful way to begin the year and set the tone for a culture where everyone works together with a clear vision and mutual support.