Session 4 Week in Review - Week 15

Zoom Gatherings

Some highlights from Zoom Gatherings this week included:

  • We kicked the week off with a debate on topics of the utmost importance: “Is cereal soup?” and “Are hotdogs tacos or sandwiches?”; it was fun keeping things light and bonding over shared opinions on low-stakes topics! 

  • Tuesday’s launch touched on a social dilemna…is it more important to keep a secret shared in confidence or share the secret if it means keeping someone safe. Learners had some great insight on the balance between transparency and safety. 

  • Wednesday was a Skill-Builder on the learning modality Share. Small groups discussed best practices for completing Share tasks across modules, and learners shared strategies they use when requested feedback on their work.

  • The week ended with an emotional launch about young change-maker, Emily Ashkin, a high-school senior who became a finalist in the Intel Science Talent Search for her immunotherapy research on melanoma. Learners grappled with tough decisions involving urgency and long-term impact when it comes to life saving medical research. 

Week 15 Highlights

We’re off to a fast and focused start to Session 4; short in length but full of momentum and determination! 

  • Mastery Milestones: Huge shoutout to Tai for completing all five of her Featured Mastery Credits! Her consistency and commitment to excellence continue to set an incredible example for her peers.

  • Leveling Up: Shoutout to Jovanni and Tanisha for staying on top of their communication and progress as they work to wrap up their Level 8 requirements and prepare for a Level 9 start in Session 5. Their focus and initiative show their growth in self-direction!

  • Apprenticeship Accomplished: Congratulations to Owen for successfully completing his Level 8 Apprenticeship! This real-world experience is a huge milestone and a reflection of hard work and follow-through.

  • Short but Mighty Session: With only three weeks in Session 4, most learners have set smart, realistic goals to make the most of this time. Mid-Action Reviews will take place the day after Exhibition, and learners are already preparing to reflect, refine, and set their next targets.

It’s inspiring to see learners taking ownership of their paths, balancing focus with flexibility, and showing what it means to finish the year strong. Full steam ahead, FSO!

Family Conversation Starters:

  • What are your top goals for this short three-week session?

  • How did you decide what to focus on to make the most of this time?

  • What does it take to complete a mastery credit—or an apprenticeship—from start to finish?

  • How do you plan to prepare for your Mid-Action Review?

  • What does “full steam ahead” look like for you in learning and in life right now?

Tyler Thigpen