Week in Review - Week 4

Zoom Gatherings

This week’s Zoom gatherings were all about Exhibition, feedback giving, and reflection as we wrap up the Session. Monday we had great discussions about how the way we give feedback can ruin or build trust with another, and learners practiced giving specific, helpful, and kind feedback that helps build trust with their Studio-mates. Tuesday was spent rehearsing for Exhibition, and deciding roles for members of each breakout room group. Wednesday we hosted the Exhibition, and despite some bumps in the road, learners expressed relief that they made it through and did their best. Thursday was all about reflecting on the individual feedback that was given to them at Exhibition, completing 360 Feedback for their peers, and reflecting on Session 1. 

Some highlights from Zoom Gatherings this week included:

  • Learners developing trust through the way in which they give feedback

  • Many learners overcame significant fear and anxiety about presenting their first Exhibition

  • Seeing learners take the lead and direct their breakout rooms with confidence and leadership

Week 4 Highlights

This week, learners truly showed what it means to be part of the studio community. As we headed into our first Exhibition of the year:

Lifting each other up: Learners practiced giving quality feedback and held themselves and one another accountable to the promises they created together.

Exhibition spirit: During and after Exhibition, learners encouraged each other with genuine support and celebration.

Powerful reflections: In our debrief, learners shared insights that show just how much growth has already taken place in Session 1:

  • “I learned how to be brave enough to hold others accountable when I used to be too intimidated—or I would try to out-intimidate them first.”

  • “I had to learn how to go deeper with my work because the expectation here is more than what I was used to in public school.”

  • “It was hard to learn Headrush at first, but the orientation quest really helped. Now I feel confident and can even help my studiomates.”

These reflections show learners stepping into courage, raising the bar for themselves, and discovering the joy of supporting others.

Looking ahead: As Session 1 closes, we encourage all learners to:

  • Celebrate where they grew and what they accomplished

  • Reflect on what didn’t work as well

  • Make a plan to make adjustments where necessary in Session 2

Upcoming Events

Sep 1-5 Session break - no school

Sep 8 Session 2 begins

Sep 23  College Guidance w/ Brennan @ 12pm ET Zoom Link (passcode: Zoom)


*A friendly reminder that events can be viewed on the 2025-2026 FSO Calendar, and updates are made in real time.

Tyler Thigpen