Week in Review - Week 4
Reminders & Updates
As we finish Week 4 and begin the session break, please be sure to check the following:
All Guided & Balanced learners should sign up for their Session 2 check-in(s) this week. Families of Guided learners should also schedule their family check-in, which will take place during Week 4 & Week 5 of Session 2.
We now have video tutorials on using Headrush IN Headrush. You can find the module here. Please use this as a resource if you get stuck!
As we end Session 1, we would like to share the Google Form for feedback, for any final feedback on how the session went, and ways we can continue improving.
Exhibition Reflection
Thank you to everyone who was a part of the Session 1 Exhibition on Wednesday. There were many nerves surrounding a new format and new processes, but learners did a great job! We look forward to a smoother process for next Session, and appreciate everyone’s patience and feedback as we tweak these new systems this year. Thank you for designing along with us!
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.