STFOA Newsletter
Tuesday, November 04, 2025
Greetings St. Francis of Assisi Families and Community,
Last week we explored how we live out our learning expectation of being Christ-centered. This week, we turn to the second pillar of our Student Learning Expectations: "Active Learners." When I asked our students what it means to be an active learner, their responses were insightful: "listening when someone else is talking, listening to instructions, doing what you’re supposed to do, and following along." This insight captures something essential—active learning begins with listening.
This perspective is so valuable, because many of us naturally think that learning is the "doing" of things: researching, reading, gathering information to expand our knowledge base and understanding. But we also know how important dialogue is as part of learning—engaging in conversations that broaden our perspective and challenge what we think we know. These are indeed strong components of active learning.
Being an active learner encompasses even more. It requires an openness to recognizing that we may not know everything and a willingness to participate fully in the work of learning. It means showing up with curiosity, asking questions, and embracing the sometimes uncomfortable process of growth. Active learners show this through participation in class, engaging in our all school assemblies, Mass, and by following expectations on the playground and throughout campus.
Based on last week’s conference attendance, which was outstanding, it's clear that our St. Francis of Assisi community deeply values this principle of active learning. When parents and teachers come together to discuss student progress, we're modeling active learning ourselves—listening carefully, asking thoughtful questions, and working collaboratively to support each child's growth.
Our students are watching and learning from these examples. When we demonstrate curiosity, engagement, and a commitment to continuous learning, we show them that being an active learner isn't just something we do in school—it's a lifelong practice that enriches every aspect of our lives and strengthens us all.
This Week's Safety Updates:
This perspective is so valuable, because many of us naturally think that learning is the "doing" of things: researching, reading, gathering information to expand our knowledge base and understanding. But we also know how important dialogue is as part of learning—engaging in conversations that broaden our perspective and challenge what we think we know. These are indeed strong components of active learning.
Being an active learner encompasses even more. It requires an openness to recognizing that we may not know everything and a willingness to participate fully in the work of learning. It means showing up with curiosity, asking questions, and embracing the sometimes uncomfortable process of growth. Active learners show this through participation in class, engaging in our all school assemblies, Mass, and by following expectations on the playground and throughout campus.
Based on last week’s conference attendance, which was outstanding, it's clear that our St. Francis of Assisi community deeply values this principle of active learning. When parents and teachers come together to discuss student progress, we're modeling active learning ourselves—listening carefully, asking thoughtful questions, and working collaboratively to support each child's growth.
Our students are watching and learning from these examples. When we demonstrate curiosity, engagement, and a commitment to continuous learning, we show them that being an active learner isn't just something we do in school—it's a lifelong practice that enriches every aspect of our lives and strengthens us all.
This Week's Safety Updates:
- Our teachers have started or about to start the Second Step lessons focusing on bullying prevention.
- Next Safety Committee meeting is Monday, November 17.
Peace,
Mrs. Farewell
