Week in Review - Week 9

Zoom Gatherings


On Monday, we had two learner-led launches, one by Emery on Less is More, and another by Nebhan on Actions vs Intentions. They both provided very thought-provoking scenarios and socratic questions for us to discuss. Tuesday, learners had a Dress Rehearsal to prepare for Exhibition. Groups were formed, roles were assigned, and presentations were practiced. Wednesday, we gathered together for the Session 2 Exhibition, which was attended by over 100 participants! Despite many tech issues, learners forged on, learning real time problem-solving. Thursday was our 2025-2026 Contract Signing ceremony. Learners signed their names, making their promises to one another, themselves, and the Studio official. We ended our Session with a short Session 2 Wrap-up, which included reviewing and reflecting on Exhibition feedback, and completing 360 Feedback for at least one other learner. 

Some highlights from Zoom Gatherings this week included:

  • A challenging, but meaningful Exhibition, with outstanding projects shared

  • Opportunities for giving and receiving feedback

  • Reflection time to focus on forward growth 

  • A signed & sealed Contract of Promises that will guide our community the remainder of the year

Week 9 Highlights

This week marked a powerful close to Session 2 - full of courage, creativity, and community wins worth celebrating!

  • Learner-Led Launches Inspire: Shoutout to Nebhan, and Emery for leading engaging, thought-provoking learner-led launches! Each of them brought unique perspectives and sparked meaningful discussion across the studio.

  • Resilience in Action: Nadia faced significant technical difficulties during Exhibition but refused to give up. She adapted on the spot, problem-solved creatively, and completed her presentation with determination, an incredible example of perseverance and grit. We heard of several other examples of learners doing the same!

  • Exhibition Excellence: Amara and Khloe demonstrated true mastery in the badges they showcased. Their depth of research, preparation, and confidence shone brightly during their final presentations. Well done!

  • Contract of Promises Signed: Congratulations to our entire FSO community of learners for officially signing this year’s Studio Contract of Promises! Learners put deep thought into the kind of school culture they want to build and now have a shared system for accountability, respect, and growth.

  • Failing Forward: This session has stretched learners in new ways. Many have faced challenges, setbacks, and moments of frustration, but those are the very moments where the deepest growth happens. Thank you, FSO families, for trusting your learners to persevere, reflect, and rise stronger on the other side.

We’re incredibly proud of the heart, honesty, and hard work our learners have shown this session. Their courage to fail forward is shaping them into lifelong learners and leaders. Well done, FSO Families!

Family Conversation Starters

  • What did you learn from watching (or leading) a learner-led launch this week?

  • How did you see someone show resilience or problem-solving during Exhibition?

  • Which part of the Studio Contract feels most meaningful to you—and why?

  • What does “failing forward” mean to you? Can you think of a time you did that recently?

  • How will you carry the lessons of Session 2 into Session 3?

Tyler Thigpen