Comments for Principally Yours

Comment on Life After TEDxIBYork by Mary Pat

Mary Pat — Wed, 17 Nov 2010 01:22:43 +0000

Very much enjoyed reading your reflections. So glad that I had taken the whole day to enjoy, learn, discuss and contemplate what in the world is possible. David, you said it so well! I think that the York School literally grew up and matured overnight ready to take on any task. It was flawless, authentic and touched everyone there. Particularly enjoyed speaking with the speakers in between sessions. No pomp, just real talk. Lots to think about. Thanks,

Comment on Life After TEDxIBYork by Adil

Adil — Tue, 16 Nov 2010 18:47:55 +0000

Fantastic write-up Mr. H!

Comment on Life After TEDxIBYork by Carly

Carly — Mon, 15 Nov 2010 19:50:05 +0000

Congratulations David! Two great events. I’m happy Our Kids Media could be thereto watch and document everything too.

Taking risks is a crucial lesson that is best learnt early, when consequences are easily mended. Unfortunately, it’s a lesson that’s also easy to forget. Events like these not only show students the possibilities that come with risk-taking, but remind adults that it’s never too late to dream or try something new.

We’ve published our own thoughts on our Blog, found here http://www.ourkids.net/blog/index.php/tedxibyork-lights-camera-ideas-6791/. Including our video of Speak Out Day at The York School!

Comment on Bringing in the Barbarians: Education and the Problem of Value by Sandra

Sandra — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 13:04:34 +0000

Salut, David! Merci, encore une fois, pour tes réflexions astucieuses! Je suis ravie que tu as pu participer au périple martiniquais et que ‘la belle langue’ se voit ressuscitée chez toi! Ton soutien pour notre mission linguistique est inestimable.
Bien à toi,
Sandra

Comment on Of Dickens, Obama and Character by David Hamilton

David Hamilton — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 17:50:51 +0000

I couldn’t agree more. I am tempted to say that there is more educational potential in one great novel than there is in any other single source. In an age when our children are bombarded with sound bytes and express themselves in part sentences and acronyms, we owe it to them to insist upon the discipline of sustained reading, and especially the reading of great works. I am glad that so many of the English teachers at our school begin each class with 10 minutes of quiet reading. What a wonderful habit to develop!

Comment on Of Dickens, Obama and Character by LGilbert

LGilbert — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 17:31:50 +0000

I agree that the power of literature does indeed impress itself upon a developing character, especially the most noble and memorable of literary heroes, such as Atticus Finch in “To Kill a Mockingbird”. Atticus is my personal literary hero. I believe that we must expose our students to great literature in order for them to benefit not only from the study of language and literature as a discipline, but as well as to give them a safe place to explore emotional and moral issues. I do believe that strength of character is something that resonates with us all, both in fiction and in real life. I also believe that the freedom to read (Freedom to Read week is next week) is a right that we must cherish, pursue and defend so that our students can develop their thinking as well as their interior life.

Comment on Success Defined by John Carter

John Carter — Sun, 08 Feb 2009 18:09:56 +0000

It is reassuring to see our children’s principal’s view of success open so broadly – and in alignment with our own philosophy.

Comment on Success Defined by Leah Leon

Leah Leon — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 18:59:43 +0000

David, I very much enjoyed and respect your view on success. As principal of the upper school, I find myself once again very satisfied with the leadership and direction York offers and you, yourself see. An invaluable and well thought out expression of building a life of substance and balance, not necessarily a title.

Comment on Success Defined by Colin Becker

Colin Becker — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 05:34:58 +0000

Hi David,
Thank you for a thought provoking post. I agree that it is important that we encourage our students to be thoughtful, and caring citizens. Citizens that want to help make their world a better place for all.
It is very easy to reward the best sportsman, the leading actor or the philanthropist (who is usually of great wealth), but we don’t recognise or reward the thousands of great teachers who spend 10,000+ hours trying to be the best etacher they possibly can, nor the thousands of nurses, and the list can go on. Why is it that we reward those that are already rewarded?

Comment on Success Defined by Andrew Torris

Andrew Torris — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 08:24:24 +0000

Wonderful post. I too will have to reflect on our pitch to parents about what we want to provide, and how we define “success”. I really like your phrase, “I hope to remember that as important as it is to create impact players in the world, it is equally important that children be given the tools and experiences to allow them to discern what makes for a truly successful life…”

I think I am going to have to expand my thoughts on that on my blog. Well written, thoughtful post.

Andy