Hamish Brewer in “The Skater Principal Making Education Fun Again” gives us a glimpse into his schools, Occoquan Elementary and Fred Lynn Middle School.Discuss 3 things you saw in this video that you would like to see at your school.
1. Hamish Brewer’s enthusiasm and visibility throughout his school. That alone tells kids that he loves and cares for them and their success along with letting the teachers know that he’s there for them. Love that! 2. I like how he organized a parent meeting and told them he needed their help with the successes of their children. He called a gang mentality. His language and tone give you a sense of comfort and feeling of someone you can trust. 3. The artwork on the wall is the best. It has meaning and probably has some influence on a lot of kids. Who knows they may look at the beautiful artwork and dream big!
What I would like to see at our school: 1. Murals and more color in the school. The principal is trying to get people to paint murals for years, I think we finally found someone to paint some, I think I need to keep pushing that to see it done/ 2. Each classroom is unique. Over the summer I hope to add more color to my classroom, not just white walls. I loved the one room with the American Flag ceiling tile. I am going to try that next year. 3. The energy, how he greats the kids. I would love it for the teachers to be by their door in the morning greeting each and everyone of their students as well as greeting students at recess and in the halls.
I would have said lighting, but that was just done over break, and what a difference it makes. Before the halls looked dark and dumpy and by getting new lights and a dropped ceiling it looks so bright and I think the mood is changing.
1. I love that the teachers had pretty free reign as to how they had their classrooms. Classrooms should not be uniform! Each teacher has a different personality and style, and each classroom should reflect that. 2. His energy is contagious! I think a lot of principals are good at having high energy at the beginning of the year, but it slowly diminishes throughout the school year. (What IS his secret? Passion? Relentlessness?) 3. The community meeting where expectations are clearly stated not only for teachers, parents, and students.
What I would love to see occur in our local school district: 1. Environmental Changes: murals, lighting, audio systems, all of these items help aid and change the whole culture of the building. 2. Mindset Changes: listening to various staff members, seeing the expressions of caregivers and students are evidence of a successful mindset. Having everyone involved have common understanding, goals, and drive, having a school system not defined by test scores, and a system that searches for every opportunity possible for students is an unbelievable mindset! 3. Sense of Community and Community Involvement: inside and outside the school walls the sense of community involvement was beyond amazing!
I love what Mr. Brewer is doing! He's so full of energy, and it's all directed in such a positive way toward the students. I'd love to see our admin. do this every day in our school--be visible and available to our students. Our school is small enough that I could visit every class every day! I'd love to see murals painted around our school that enhance the ideas of pride and achievement. I think it makes for a more positive learning atmosphere and makes it a "home" for our students. I love the way the students are so respectful. They feel the respect from him (and the teachers) and give it back. It would be wonderful to see that with all our teachers and students.
1.) Mindset and mantras. I thought all of his approach on these topics were very powerful and make a tremendous difference. 2.) Murals and diverse lighting. I think these things helped keep the spirit and energy high. I think this would be great at our school! 3.) Unlimited field trips. I know this may not be realistic but the idea of promoting more "experience" in education is inspiring and I think would make a tremendous impact on students and their learning.
The first thing that I saw and felt was the energy that this man brings! It's contagious!! The relationships that he has with the students, he is seen. How he not only gets the students energized but the parents as well. I would love to go to one of the schools in our district and "see" the principal not just sitting in the office but around in different classrooms. We have a huge Native American population in our district so seeing that mural. Having something like that in our district would bring so much-needed pride.
I witnessed so much positive energy and uplifting things happening. The students seemed very comfortable interacting with him, even as the principal. I think atmosphere is so very important. In our classroom we have very good energy and not only students but other staff like to come in, I think we let everyone know that this is a safe, happy classroom. Another positive I saw was he is just himself, and encouraging others to do the same. Also, stepping outside the box, we tell our students this all the time encouraging them to take healthy risks.
Working with this guy would be such an exciting adventure every day. I love his energy and "relentless" attitude of actually achieving goals. I would love to see a principal like this at our school where the students get to interact with this person in a positive way. The hugs, high fives, the calling them by name, is such a great way to connect with the students. I would like to see parents more involved. We serve so many schools, I don't know how we could accomplish this, but it would be great for the parents to somehow get to meet us and see some of the activities we do with their children. I would love to see murals painted on our walls and in the classrooms. I think our rooms need to be brighter and more welcoming.
Hamish Brewer in “The Skater Principal Making Education Fun Again” gives us a glimpse into his schools, Occoquan Elementary and Fred Lynn Middle School. Discuss 3 things you saw in this video that you would like to see at your school.
Mr. Brewer really is an amazing and inspiring principal. I would love to see the following at our school: 1. The facility design. This may end up sounding bad, but I am in a brand new school this year and it is so great. I definitely don't take it for granted. There are a few things where the design tries to spice it up a bit, but overall it is so blah. The district put a limit on what we could put on our walls, how we could hang things, etc. I miss having the option to make it feel like a fun place to learn instead of an office building with blank walls. 2. Parent Involvement. I would love to see more opportunities to get parents inside our walls. Yes, they come for sporting events or concerts, but I would love to see opportunities for parents to see what kids are doing and learning every day. This could also apply to our community members. 3. Mottos/Mantras. The students were engaged, understood them, and inspired by them. I think mottos/mantras also help focus student, teacher, and community members into the final goal.
Hamish Brewer in “The Skater Principal Making Education Fun Again” gives us a glimpse into his schools, Occoquan Elementary and Fred Lynn Middle School. Discuss 3 things you saw in this video that you would like to see at your school. All of it!!! I want to see all of that in our school. That was so refreshing. He was upbeat, positive, he naturally shared expectations, he went from classroom to classroom, he was involved, he met with the kids, he welcomed them, he was there at the end of the day. I can imagine that he would be one uplifting, supporting, positive principal to work with. I can see how people are encouraged by him-he brings out the best in people.
Wow what an amazing principal! I loved absolutely everything about this video. 1. I loved his involvement with the kids! He tells them goodbye as they leave the school and tells them he loves them. I bet he knows the name of every single student in his building! 2. I love the tattoos and the way he's not afraid to dress in shorts and a t shirt. He skateboards up and down the halls. He high fives kids and pumps them up. He visits the classrooms. He makes himself approachable and not intimidating. 3. The murals on the wall are awesome. I love that his buildings are inviting. He does all he can to make sure the students aren't short changed in all aspects. He puts his heart into it every single day. What an inspiration!
Hamish Brewer in “The Skater Principal Making Education Fun Again” gives us a glimpse into his schools, Occoquan Elementary and Fred Lynn Middle School. Discuss 3 things you saw in this video that you would like to see at your school.
He really is an inspiring principal. The first aspect of this video I would love to see my school is the energetic school assemblies. It's really difficult to achieve the engagement and excitement from an entire school of students all at one time. I love the respect the students show for their principal and it really is an "all for one" mentality. In addition, I really agree with his desire to relate and connect with students on a level they understand. Life is not perfect, so school should not be a place where kids have to be perfect, but to know that willingness is key. If adults in the building can connect with students to let them know our goal is positive, productive humans, not perfect robots, I think kids will respect that. Finally, I loved his quote, "There is no opt out, all in means all in." It is true community. I teach in a small town in the midwest where it is really simple to build the community atmosphere around the school community. We just have to be conscious of how the school is an intricate part of the community.
Three things that I saw in the video that I would like to see at my is school is: 1.I loved his presence in the school. I have come from a district where the principal was always locked in her office, or they were pulled so many ways that they didn't have time or make the time to bond with the students. Luckily for me our new principal this year has made these steps like Hamish Brewer and it has a huge impact on the students and staff. 2. More art work. We have started adding a little bit, but the school feels so much more inviting and uplifting when you are able to see art and students work throughout the hallways and building. 3. The community meetings before school. I think by having the principals bring in the community and set the tone that we are all in this together is huge and very beneficial.
Hamish Brewer in “The Skater Principal Making Education Fun Again” gives us a glimpse into his schools, Occoquan Elementary and Fred Lynn Middle School. Discuss 3 things you saw in this video that you would like to see at your school.
I think daylight bulbs rather than regular yellow school bulbs would be great. I think music in the hallways would be fun in the morning and between classes. I love the energy he has when he greets the students in the morning when they come in and when they are passing in the hallways. I love the flag painted on the ceiling tiles in the one room Also, the mural with all the iconic leaders is neat. Just love the vibe! Such energy!
1. I really admired the energy he brought to the hallways. His enthusiasm not only helped him connect with the students, but it also encouraged them to get where they needed to be efficiently. It’s a great example of how you can build relationships in a fun way while also earning respect.
2. I was impressed by how he promoted creativity in his school. The murals he brought into the environment were truly inspiring. Incorporating vibrant art into classrooms and hallways is a wonderful way to engage students and bring energy to the space.
3. The excitement and positive energy surrounding Hamish Brewer were evident, especially when staff members spoke about him. It’s common for morale to dip mid-year, but it was clear the staff felt supported and motivated, eager to come to school each day. The students mirrored this excitement, which I believe stems from the community meeting held at the start of the year. It set clear expectations for families, staff, and students, fostering a sense of unity.
1. The energy- the dance party with the lights the kids having so much fun and truly enjoying their time in the school district. The way the kids truly cheer for Mr. Brewer when he is announced in the gym. 2. Teacher’s classrooms/designs- I really like how the teachers have free reign in their classroom changing the colors, changing the layout, and making their space their own. I have been in spaces where you have rules about how/if you are allowed to hang things on the wall and he is spray painting his mural on the wall of Relentless. 3. Mr. Brewer himself- while watching this video, the coolest thing I have seen would be Mr. Brewer himself. He is truly involved in these children’s lives he makes an effort to give high fives in the hallways, stands outside and waves as the busses leave, the kids know him and he knows them. He tells them that he loves them every day. He is relentless with what he does for his school/community.
So many kids do not like coming to school. They even state they are bored. Some things I saw in the video that would be great to have at my school: 1) a VISIBLE principal. Someone who motivates students and teachers. Someone who is respected by students. 2) Kids having fun while learning. 3) unlimited field trips. If it relates to what students are learning in the classroom a field trip makes it real. It was neat to see the community meet before school and be supportive. Also, not all classrooms looked and operated the same. My school wants us all the same. Teachers are told not to use supplemental materials. They can only use the curriculum. The excitement of teaching and students learning was awesome. The way it should be.
1. I saw kids excited to be in school and teachers excited to see the kids! The energy of the first day of school seems to just flop some years. I love how he opened the doors and let the big crowd of kids come in, welcoming them as they walked in. I think maybe it was the 'big entrance'. Our students trickle in one or two at a time, I think that kind of takes away the climax of the 'big day!' 2. I saw a principal going in and out of classrooms freely, making kids and teachers aware that he is present, he is there for them, all of them! It seems like our principals have so much on their plate that they can't get away from the office and make it down our hallways. While I do seem them in the hallways between passing periods, I just rarely have a principal 'pop in' and see how class is going without it being an evaluation. I used to have that when I first started teaching and I loved what it did for me (hold me accountable) and for the kids (the principal is more than just an office figure). 3. I loved the assemblies and the energy. It has been a long time since I have seen that kind of energy from the school principal, staff and students. I've been to pep rallies at schools i've worked at without pep! These assemblies in the video had hype! They would be fun to be a part of.
1. Unlimited field trips: there are so many places in our community that kids can visit & feel a connection to. They can share their enthusiasm with their parents & tell them what they learned. I feel parents these days do not share the knowledge & connection that my parents did with me. 2. Murals that uplifting are a fantastic way to buy into the mindset trying to accomplish. If kids see it each day & feel it in their school, it will help them believe the quotes. 3. Teachers are given the freedom to develop lesson plans that are vital to learning. I loved the idea of developing a city & all the learning that was accomplished in that month long learning. The students will not forget that!
Three things I wish I could have at my school from the video: 1. I love the daylight light bulbs! I absolutely loathe florescent lights, especially in rooms with no windows and I really think the daylight being mimicked would change student and adult moods who spend hours in the room 2. I loved the interaction with parents and the involvement from the community. It's proven over and over again that we have better success with everyone invested. 3. I love all the murals and paintings and quotes around the schools to make it less "sterile" and more inviting for everyone!
Three things from this video that I'd like to see at my school: 1. The vibes: I love the general crazy, excited, yet respectful energy that just radiates from this principal. Like one teacher said in the video, that kind of energy is contagious and it only takes one to start spreading that fire! 2. The look: I love how he broke the norm of what a school "should" look like with the graffiti, daylight bulbs, and color everywhere. It really sets the scene for a fun, cozy atmosphere. Plus like he said, the school is our home--why not make it a place we love to look at and be? 3. The love: I want to start normalizing saying "I love you" and hugging students, staff, and parents that are comfortable with it. I wouldn't encroach on someone's personal space, but could start with high fives and pats on the back. I've never really seriously told students that I loved them; for some reason I had it in my head that it was somehow inappropriate or unprofessional. After chatting with fellow teachers at lunch today, I'm going to start saying it, and see how the kids react!
1. Daylight light bulbs! I heard that and thought wow that would be really nice! 2. A visible principal. I would love to see a principal greeting students in the hallway, giving high fives, coming in to classrooms solely for visiting to see what's going on and not just for drop ins/observations, etc. He really shows the kids how much he cares for them and in turn, the teachers as well. 3. I would love to see assemblies with kids that get them excited. Everything in my school always feels so formal. I would love a principal who is not afraid for students to see them as a human who cares for them instead of a boss who can't let anyone see them have fun.
One of the first things to jump out at me in this video was the wall murals. I would absolutely love to get rid of all of the beige in my classroom and the hallways. Often when physical changes are requested they are not met with the way Mr. Brewer told that teacher he could get a new shelf in his room.
The Second thing was the diverse community buy-in. We are a fairly diverse school, however when there was a community night I did not see an accurate representation of the diversity we have. Actually, a good chunk of the attendees were teachers, so buy-in from the community in general would be awesome!
Finally, the energy and passion for education not only exuded from Mr. Brewer but also from the teachers in his school. When the one teacher said, "this is why I got into teaching," it made me realize we don't see enough of that passion in education. We see a lot more of countdown to retirement and, "I don't get paid enough for this."
Hamish Brewer in “The Skater Principal Making Education Fun Again” gives us a glimpse into his schools, Occoquan Elementary and Fred Lynn Middle School. Discuss 3 things you saw in this video that you would like to see at your school. The first thing a saw was the murals I like how they have paintings on the wall. I think that the students would really enjoy this or at least be able to see who these people are. Next I liked how he does his morning announcements over the intercom. It seems like it would make the day flow better then having a big group of students in the same room. Lastly his energy and how infectious it is to his staff and the students. I think that would be the best for any school.
I love the murals in the Fred Lynn Middle School. Seeing those inspiring leaders painted on the walls in the halls of your school would be uplifting and remind students and staff what they should strive for each and every day. I agree with Hamish Brewer that school and learning should be about having fun. If students are not interested, invested, and engaged, they won’t learn. Lastly, I would love to see that energy in my school! The way the kids and staff were ready to learn together is awesome!
(when he speaks with incorrect grammar I cringe--eek) I love how he changes the face of the facility. Changing to daylight bulbs is huge and we feel differently in that lighting, imagine how the kids feel. However, the murals... kids love seeing colorful, fun hall ways, not drab, bland monotones. His energy is contagious as well. To have someone come into a school and commit 7 years to turn around a failing school and do whatever it takes is so commendable. That might not be what my school needs (a turnaround) but the energy and passion should be evident daily so kids can feel that you care and that shows them they are important and learning is important and they can have fun doing it. One thing I would like to see that was not mentioned in this video but was in the book is the Harry Potter style houses of the tribes. Since we do live in South Dakota the tribes and the Native American connection would be a good teaching moment. I like how it makes a family of the entire school but then divides them into four teams for some fun competition and then when a new student joins the school, they spin the wheel to see which tribe they get to join. How fun!
Three things I saw in this video I would like to see at my school.
Creating a vibrant and exciting environment. Brewer transformed the school’s atmosphere! He wasn’t hesitant to make a change, and I think that enhances the student’s comfort. I would love it if our school changed its hallways to bring a new energy to the space.
His passion! Brewer’s passion was contagious. He wasn’t afraid to celebrate kids loudly and he modeled what it looks like to lead with heart. More schools need a culture where teachers and leaders feel free to show passion because that creates an inspiring environment for everyone.
Relentless focused. Making there be no doubt that our schools’ policies are always aligned with what’s best for children. I believe my school believes that, but I would love to see it be set on fire.
More Color The main part of our school is older, with a newer addition added in 2017. The older section is pretty dark and drab, and I think a little brightness would go a long way. A fresh coat of paint could help liven up the space, and I’d love to see some murals on the walls. We have so many talented student artists—it would be great to showcase their work and let it inspire others.
More Custom Classrooms This summer, I’m planning to bring more of my own style into my classroom. I’ll be moving to a different school next year, and I want to make my new room feel like mine. I think it’s important for classrooms to reflect who we are as teachers. It gives students a sense of who we are and helps build connections and relationships.
More Visible Teachers While staff does a decent job being visible in the hallways during transition times, I’d love to see even more of it. When teachers are out in the halls, interacting with students, it sets a positive tone. Those small conversations and smiles can really build relationships and bring good energy to the school.
Windows!!! Some classrooms in our building don’t have any windows, and others have windows that just face a brick wall. While we obviously can’t tear down walls, I’d love to see more creative solutions—like adding windows that open into the interior hallway to bring in more light and openness. Some teachers have even decorated their “brick wall” windows with blue paper to make it look like the sky. I think it would be awesome if more rooms did something like that. Even a small change can make a big difference in the feel of a space.
That video put a fire inside me! Hamish Brewer has a contagious energy that makes educators want to see change in not only the day to day teaching, but the foundation in which students walk into. The first thing I really like about the school is the large, impactful murals. They are mottos that the school believes in and they are filled with inspirational people. They are also done in a way that connects with students and feels cool. The next thing I liked was his spirit! They way he spoke to students, staff, and families showed his passion. It made them buy into the mission that he is trying to push. Lastly, I really liked that he spoke about learning being fun and school should be a place of love. When you have those two things, how could students not want to show up?!
Hamish Brewer in “The Skater Principal Making Education Fun Again” gives us a glimpse into his schools, Occoquan Elementary and Fred Lynn Middle School. Discuss 3 things you saw in this video that you would like to see at your school.
First of all, Hamish Brewers' approach to being a leader/teacher is contagious. His energy and passion is the kind of teacher I strive to be everyday. Three things that I would like to see at my school is how he was present and made his rounds to each classroom. I can count on one hand how many times our administration has been seen in our elementary halls or classrooms. I think this would help with some of the behavior issues. Second, I love how he teaches respect and how he sets expectations, and third, I like how he spoke to the parents and said we can't do this without you, and how he makes the students accountable for "signing up" and stepping up. He has a way of motivating students to take accountability for themselves.
Things I saw in the video that I would like to see more of in my school are:
1. The excitement, enthusiasm, and energy. This was evident in the video and it also appeared contagious as it seemed to carry over to students and staff. I would love to see more of that! 2. I would love to see the gang mentality. He clearly has expectations and makes sure everyone is a part of that. Promoting that gang mentality seems to get buy-in and produce results. 3. The color, artwork, lights, etc. were great to see. It definitely brings a uniqueness to the building and I think that just helps to enhance everything his schools have going for them.
Hamish Brewer in “The Skater Principal Making Education Fun Again” gives us a glimpse into his schools, Occoquan Elementary and Fred Lynn Middle School. Discuss 3 things you saw in this video that you would like to see at your school. 1. Hamish Brewer's energy is amazing! I would love to see our principal and staff bring this level of energy and excitement into the building each and every day. 2. Principal Brewer's presence in the classroom and around the school with the students is inspiring. He is setting the tone and setting the expectations for the students. How great that must be for his teaching staff! 3. I really like that Mr. Brewer plans and allows for many field trips. I think that getting students out of the four walls of a classroom and giving them real life, hands-on experiences can improve learning and give students more motivation to want to come to school. I'm not sure how this works with budgeting, but would like to see more of them at my school.
Hamish Brewer in “The Skater Principal Making Education Fun Again” gives us a glimpse into his schools, Occoquan Elementary and Fred Lynn Middle School. Discuss 3 things you saw in this video that you would like to see at your school. 1. Passion - Passion is contagious and Hamish Brewer is loaded with it. We do have teachers who are passionate, but Mr. Brewer's passion is beyond the typical passion. If the leader exudes passion, and being that passion and excitement are contagious, I think there is a lot more that could happen and grow in our school. 2. Connection - I would love to see more connection between people in our school. Between teachers and students, students and students, teachers and parents, and school and community. When people come together for a purpose, so much more can be achieved. 3. Community - I love seeing how Mr. Brewer is bringing in the parents and the community. Most people are proud of our school, but there are also the vocal minority that are always critical. I wish the school culture and the connection we had to the community was louder than the nay-sayers. We do have businesses helping with our major event and fundraiser, a 5K, but I'm not sure that we showcase enough what we are doing with those funds. I wish we were creating more opportunities for our students and that the community would also know about those things to excite more passion.
Three things I would like to see at my current school are the walls to be painted with murals. The cream/tan feels like a prison and it’s so outdated and blah. Sure there are a couple paintings of the school mascot but that is not exciting. Another thing would be to see so many teachers excited about the changes even though small, students displaying manners, being on time to class, and walking on the correct side of the hall. These are little, but they were excited by Hamish and were willing to do those small things because they are important. The last thing I would like is a principal who is constantly making rounds and checking in, engaging with the kids, participating in what’s happening in the class. Not just stopping in twice a year for an observation. Seeing the principal in all the classes let students know the admin is engaged in their learning and cares what they are learning and doing while in the building.
Hamish Brewer in “The Skater Principal Making Education Fun Again” gives us a glimpse into his schools, Occoquan Elementary and Fred Lynn Middle School. Discuss 3 things you saw in this video that you would like to see at your school.
I would love to see unlimited field trips/ experiences a tangible thing for teachers to utilize. I would love to have all our lights changed to daylight bulbs instead of florescent. Audio enhanced classrooms students love music and this would be helpful in utilizing this in each classroom.
Hamish Brewer in “The Skater Principal Making Education Fun Again” gives us a glimpse into his schools, Occoquan Elementary and Fred Lynn Middle School. Discuss 3 things you saw in this video that you would like to see at your school.
There were so many amazing things happening in just a short 10 minute video! I would love to see our school coming up with a motto like 'relentless'. It would be awesome to see murals around that around our school. I would also like to see us change to the daylight bulbs. I feel like my classroom is so brutal for lighting. It is so bright and harsh. I would love to see a fix for that. I would also like to see the energy that I saw in the video. The energy from Mr. Brewer, the teachers, and students was contagious. It would also be amazing to see manners come back into our school. I loved hearing saying yes sir and yes ma'am. I think basic manners are so important and are somewhat lost right now. The last thing that would be amazing to see at my school would be the All - In attitude. It would be amazing to have everyone in the district being all -in for our students.
1. The first thing that I noticed was his visibility in the hallways, classrooms, and assemblies. It is important for kids to know that people in their building care for them. Brewer ensures that the students know who he is and what he is about. This would be a positive reinforcement in my building showing that we are all in this together! 2. I loved the way that he announces each morning that he loves everyone in the building. Relationships are key to creating a positive learning environment. Everyone needs to be loved and appreciated. I believe this would significantly help many students who don't feel valued in my building. 3. Mr. Brewer lets the students know immediately his expectations for each of them. These include working hard, being all in, and failure isn’t an option. These essential elements are critical to success in life. I believe students in my school need clear, precise expectations.
1. I like all the murals around his school. I think it makes schools feel more welcoming and inviting. 2. His enthusiasm and energy. I think that is something that most schools could always use more of. 3. The "Gang Mentality" . I think its important to show kids and families that it really takes all of us working together to really make changes. It cant just be one person trying to make change.
Three things that I saw in the video that I would want for my school: 1. I would like to see murals on our walls, and I would like to have our art students do it. A few teachers and I have talked about banners for our gym, and have debated different themes and ideas. 2. I ended up watching two more videos of Hamish and his schools. I love how all the teachers got onboard with the changes and were almost more excited as the students. In one of the videos they showed, the school was preparing to divide the students into five different houses (or hives), the teachers got divided first and then the students. We did something similar but not near as complex in the past but after Covid and a change in administration it was dropped. 3. I was impressed by the soccer game in the second video I watched, there were more than 60 students divided into two teams playing on a football field. The students had to stay after school and do their homework for an hour for two days and then they got to play the third day. The students loved soccer and that is what they selected to do. It was a win-win situation.
1. I love it when the principal is out and walking around in the school. It makes me heartbroken when kids say all the principal does is sit in her/his office all day. 2. I would love for it be become normal for admin/teachers to say, "I love you" to the kids. That's probably my favorite thing about Hamish! 3. I love how he gets the parents involved and let them know they are a team. I think we can go so much further as a team than just me as a teacher of your child's class.
Hamish Brewer in “The Skater Principal Making Education Fun Again” gives us a glimpse into his schools, Occoquan Elementary and Fred Lynn Middle School. Discuss 3 things you saw in this video that you would like to see at your school.
Gosh, I would love to have him or someone like him as my principal. 1. His positive energy is absolutely contagious! Not only did he get the kids excited, he got the teachers excited. 2. The relationships he built with parents was amazing. He made sure they know they are part of the team. 3. The art work! I love walking into schools full of color and that mural was fabulous!
1. The sense of community that you could sense from the get-go. You could tell that students and staff were very much a family, and they respected each other. Even the parents at the community meeting. 2. Hamish Brewer easily telling the students that he loved them. You could tell the students felt valued and cared for. He has shared this consistently through the book, but it was powerful to see in the video. 3. All of the color, quotes, posters, and murals painted on by the staff and others! The celebration of art, for students to see something other than white walls. Art teaches us empathy and expression. I also loved how he painted the word "Relentless" at both schools!
Hamish Brewer in “The Skater Principal Making Education Fun Again” gives us a glimpse into his schools, Occoquan Elementary and Fred Lynn Middle School. Discuss 3 things you saw in this video that you would like to see at your school.
Three things I saw in his video that I would like to see in my school is his presence, everyone knows he is the Principal. His announcement in the mornings letting students know he is rooting for them and loves them. Lastly, the energy and enthusiasm for being there everyday!
1. High energy, high expectations. I loved Hamish Brewer's involvement in student spaces and classrooms, and all of the high energy he brought with him. Along with that, even though he is fun and loud, he inspires respect and manners. I thought it was amazing he could do both at the same time. 2. Artwork - I loved the color and the inspiration from the artwork and murals that he designed. 3. Community buy in - I feel like often in my district there are meetings and open houses and everything is presented to families, and it all feels the same. With his meeting with families he was just as fun as he is with the students everyday at school. I really feel that community and parent buy in is so important, because without it, the efforts that we make during the school day can be stunted.
Hamish Brewer in “The Skater Principal Making Education Fun Again” gives us a glimpse into his schools, Occoquan Elementary and Fred Lynn Middle School. Discuss 3 things you saw in this video that you would like to see at your school.
1. I loved his energy and the involvement that the kids had within the school. He made them feel like they do belong in school, along with holding them to the expectations. 2. Adding in art in the school to make it feel welcome and give it more than "just a school" vibe. 3. He wanted community support and he didn't want to fail the community. He wanted to make sure they were involved and he wanted to show them that he wanted their school system to be successful.
1. I love how he is seen and knows the kids. He is driven for the kids. He is so energetic and the kids know he is there for them. "Was I better for kids today?" 2. The paintings on the wall. The kids get to do it and be proud of it. It makes the school theirs. It also makes you feel like you are in a fun place, which at some schools, you don't feel that. Some of the murals can inspire the children. 3. The teachers love him. He leads by example and it makes you want to be energetic and grow relationships and just be better. It would be nice to see that everyday.
1. Organizing parent meetings to get parents involved in the school and community. 2. The paintings on the wall to inspire kids and make them proud of their school. 3. Him telling his student's he loves them because some of them maybe have never heard it or had not that day.
1. I like the positive attitudes. 2. I like the artwork on the walls. It looks positive and welcoming. 3. The kids believe him and are willing to work with him.
1. Helping students hear the message that they are worthy, valuable, capable, and loved just the way they are. He is passionate about making sure that they know those things. Breathing hope for their futures into the students will have far reaching and significant returns on investment. 2. I like that he builds genuine relationships with all stakeholders. The love and mutual respect is apparent. 3. I love how he encourages teachers to think outside the box to inspire students to do great things. To dream the impossible and go after it relentlessly.
1. I really thought having the community event was important because it set the expectation for the rest of the year.
2. Stakeholders heard the same message at the same time. There is a sense of community and transparency with that first community of the year.
3.I really thought the energy and enthusiasm was contagious. Teachers and students were buying into the relentless mantra He follows through. He is visible. He is making his educational rounds. Kids know who the principal is and he is building relationships.
1. The parent meeting: the turn out was amazing. I teach in a high school and I would love to see this turnout for our students and parents. We will see this type of attendance for the new incoming freshman, but not the upper classmen. Many parents also do not get involved with their child's school.
2.The educational rounds the Brewer made on the first day. The excitement was contagious and the students were visibility glad to be there. They were already excited to tackle the school year.
3. Art: I love the artwork through the building. It made it more homey and inviting than just white walls.
The three things that I would like to see at my school are... 1.) Mr. Brewer’s way of greeting kids outside of school, in the classroom, or in the hallways. This shows how connected he wants to be to the students and how he cares for them too. 2.) Hamish’s energy and enthusiasm! How great that would be for the students to see every day from ALL staff and not to mention how it would help my outlook on the day too. 3.) Manners & respect being stressed by Hamish shows the importance he places on them and it is done in a casual interaction with students. These are often overlooked by students and adults but are vital to a positive interaction.
1. I would like to see the energy and enthusiasm that Hamish Brewer has displayed by our administration and staff every day throughout the hallways and when we greet students. 2. I would like to see our building have inspiring and motivating murals on our walls that tie into our building goals. 3. I would like to see our students have field trips. We used to do one field trip a year as a reward for our students, but we haven’t been able to do that for several years due to the cost.
One of the things that I saw Mr. Brewer do in the video that I would like to see at our school is to be able to give more field trips. I know that unlimited may be pushing it but we are only allowed one field trip per grade level at our school. Second, I would like our teachers to have as much enthusiasm as Mr. Brewer. That type of energy is definitely contagious. I feel like a lot of our teachers think that if we are energetic then the kids will be out of control. I just want them to see that we are passionate. Last, I would like to see our school get a face lift in some areas. As I have said before, we are a 100 year old building and I think that we have to put more effort into making our school appealing than many other schools.
1. Artwork is Power! Our school has a deep level of diversity, and we have the clubs to back it up. I would love to encourage our student and teacher artists to display strong leaders on walls of our highest traffic areas. Seeing these strong people and perhaps words of empowerment would be inspiring. They would provide reminders to keep chasing 100. 2. I think community buy-in is key. We work hard at our school with Freshmen orientation, and parent turnout is huge. However, it dies off after Freshmen year. I don't think parents are collectively apathetic. I think they are busy and believe their students are in good hands, but we need them as staunch stakeholders to reinforce our norms, help as volunteers, and support us in trying new things. Plus, they have great ideas, but we don't always hear them when they don't speak. 3. Energy! This is difficult emotion to display every day as the school year is long. I tell my students that I feed on their energy and that it is tough to bring the noise when they are so low. Students feed off their teachers in the same way that teachers feed off their admin. It's difficult to be in a bad mood around so much positivity.
Hamish Brewer in “The Skater Principal Making Education Fun Again” gives us a glimpse into his schools, Occoquan Elementary and Fred Lynn Middle School. Discuss 3 things you saw in this video that you would like to see at your school.
1. I would love to see more art in our hallways. We just redid our whole High School and would love to see even more. I think it would be fantastic if we got the students involved in creating murals around the school. I think the whole district could use a facelift! 2. The comment where he said we need to be the students advocate. That hit home to me because, some students might not get that at home. Their voices need to be heard! 3. The energy that Hamish Brewer brings is INSANE! The more energy and positive you are, the students will start seeing that and will want to replicate the same. Our school could use that kind of energy because their are days where students do not want to go to school. With that energy, students would be eager to keep showing up!
1. Manners: simple respect goes a long way to showing someone you care, 2. Better communication between admin and teachers with family situations change. We look like mud on our face when parents speak to us like we should know they're getting divorced and let the school know. 3. better teacher moral. the teachers looked excited to be teaching again. That's because Mr. Brewer is an open book. What you see is what you get. He's got your back.
Hamish is very inspiring. Three things I would like to see are: 1. Excitement and Energy. This goes a LONG way with students. It gains their attention and focus! This would be very beneficial. 2. Communication. Communicating with ALL parents so they know we are a team and all need to be on the same page 3. Murals and Art work! I painted a mural in my music room and the students LOVED it! They enjoy things they can relate to.
1. Hamish Brewer’s enthusiasm and visibility throughout his school. That alone tells kids that he loves and cares for them and their success along with letting the teachers know that he’s there for them. Love that!
ReplyDelete2. I like how he organized a parent meeting and told them he needed their help with the successes of their children. He called a gang mentality. His language and tone give you a sense of comfort and feeling of someone you can trust.
3. The artwork on the wall is the best. It has meaning and probably has some influence on a lot of kids. Who knows they may look at the beautiful artwork and dream big!
What I would like to see at our school:
ReplyDelete1. Murals and more color in the school. The principal is trying to get people to paint murals for years, I think we finally found someone to paint some, I think I need to keep pushing that to see it done/
2. Each classroom is unique. Over the summer I hope to add more color to my classroom, not just white walls. I loved the one room with the American Flag ceiling tile. I am going to try that next year.
3. The energy, how he greats the kids. I would love it for the teachers to be by their door in the morning greeting each and everyone of their students as well as greeting students at recess and in the halls.
I would have said lighting, but that was just done over break, and what a difference it makes. Before the halls looked dark and dumpy and by getting new lights and a dropped ceiling it looks so bright and I think the mood is changing.
1. I love that the teachers had pretty free reign as to how they had their classrooms. Classrooms should not be uniform! Each teacher has a different personality and style, and each classroom should reflect that.
ReplyDelete2. His energy is contagious! I think a lot of principals are good at having high energy at the beginning of the year, but it slowly diminishes throughout the school year. (What IS his secret? Passion? Relentlessness?)
3. The community meeting where expectations are clearly stated not only for teachers, parents, and students.
What I would love to see occur in our local school district:
ReplyDelete1. Environmental Changes: murals, lighting, audio systems, all of these items help aid and change the whole culture of the building.
2. Mindset Changes: listening to various staff members, seeing the expressions of caregivers and students are evidence of a successful mindset. Having everyone involved have common understanding, goals, and drive, having a school system not defined by test scores, and a system that searches for every opportunity possible for students is an unbelievable mindset!
3. Sense of Community and Community Involvement: inside and outside the school walls the sense of community involvement was beyond amazing!
I love what Mr. Brewer is doing! He's so full of energy, and it's all directed in such a positive way toward the students. I'd love to see our admin. do this every day in our school--be visible and available to our students. Our school is small enough that I could visit every class every day!
ReplyDeleteI'd love to see murals painted around our school that enhance the ideas of pride and achievement. I think it makes for a more positive learning atmosphere and makes it a "home" for our students.
I love the way the students are so respectful. They feel the respect from him (and the teachers) and give it back. It would be wonderful to see that with all our teachers and students.
1.) Mindset and mantras. I thought all of his approach on these topics were very powerful and make a tremendous difference.
ReplyDelete2.) Murals and diverse lighting. I think these things helped keep the spirit and energy high. I think this would be great at our school!
3.) Unlimited field trips. I know this may not be realistic but the idea of promoting more "experience" in education is inspiring and I think would make a tremendous impact on students and their learning.
The first thing that I saw and felt was the energy that this man brings! It's contagious!! The relationships that he has with the students, he is seen. How he not only gets the students energized but the parents as well. I would love to go to one of the schools in our district and "see" the principal not just sitting in the office but around in different classrooms. We have a huge Native American population in our district so seeing that mural. Having something like that in our district would bring so much-needed pride.
ReplyDeleteI witnessed so much positive energy and uplifting things happening. The students seemed very comfortable interacting with him, even as the principal. I think atmosphere is so very important. In our classroom we have very good energy and not only students but other staff like to come in, I think we let everyone know that this is a safe, happy classroom. Another positive I saw was he is just himself, and encouraging others to do the same. Also, stepping outside the box, we tell our students this all the time encouraging them to take healthy risks.
ReplyDeleteWorking with this guy would be such an exciting adventure every day. I love his energy and "relentless" attitude of actually achieving goals. I would love to see a principal like this at our school where the students get to interact with this person in a positive way. The hugs, high fives, the calling them by name, is such a great way to connect with the students.
ReplyDeleteI would like to see parents more involved. We serve so many schools, I don't know how we could accomplish this, but it would be great for the parents to somehow get to meet us and see some of the activities we do with their children.
I would love to see murals painted on our walls and in the classrooms. I think our rooms need to be brighter and more welcoming.
Hamish Brewer in “The Skater Principal Making Education Fun Again” gives us a glimpse into his schools, Occoquan Elementary and Fred Lynn Middle School. Discuss 3 things you saw in this video that you would like to see at your school.
ReplyDeleteMr. Brewer really is an amazing and inspiring principal. I would love to see the following at our school:
1. The facility design. This may end up sounding bad, but I am in a brand new school this year and it is so great. I definitely don't take it for granted. There are a few things where the design tries to spice it up a bit, but overall it is so blah. The district put a limit on what we could put on our walls, how we could hang things, etc. I miss having the option to make it feel like a fun place to learn instead of an office building with blank walls.
2. Parent Involvement. I would love to see more opportunities to get parents inside our walls. Yes, they come for sporting events or concerts, but I would love to see opportunities for parents to see what kids are doing and learning every day. This could also apply to our community members.
3. Mottos/Mantras. The students were engaged, understood them, and inspired by them. I think mottos/mantras also help focus student, teacher, and community members into the final goal.
Hamish Brewer in “The Skater Principal Making Education Fun Again” gives us a glimpse into his schools, Occoquan Elementary and Fred Lynn Middle School. Discuss 3 things you saw in this video that you would like to see at your school.
ReplyDeleteAll of it!!! I want to see all of that in our school. That was so refreshing. He was upbeat, positive, he naturally shared expectations, he went from classroom to classroom, he was involved, he met with the kids, he welcomed them, he was there at the end of the day. I can imagine that he would be one uplifting, supporting, positive principal to work with. I can see how people are encouraged by him-he brings out the best in people.
Wow what an amazing principal! I loved absolutely everything about this video.
ReplyDelete1. I loved his involvement with the kids! He tells them goodbye as they leave the school and tells them he loves them. I bet he knows the name of every single student in his building!
2. I love the tattoos and the way he's not afraid to dress in shorts and a t shirt. He skateboards up and down the halls. He high fives kids and pumps them up. He visits the classrooms. He makes himself approachable and not intimidating.
3. The murals on the wall are awesome. I love that his buildings are inviting. He does all he can to make sure the students aren't short changed in all aspects. He puts his heart into it every single day. What an inspiration!
Hamish Brewer in “The Skater Principal Making Education Fun Again” gives us a glimpse into his schools, Occoquan Elementary and Fred Lynn Middle School. Discuss 3 things you saw in this video that you would like to see at your school.
ReplyDeleteHe really is an inspiring principal. The first aspect of this video I would love to see my school is the energetic school assemblies. It's really difficult to achieve the engagement and excitement from an entire school of students all at one time. I love the respect the students show for their principal and it really is an "all for one" mentality. In addition, I really agree with his desire to relate and connect with students on a level they understand. Life is not perfect, so school should not be a place where kids have to be perfect, but to know that willingness is key. If adults in the building can connect with students to let them know our goal is positive, productive humans, not perfect robots, I think kids will respect that. Finally, I loved his quote, "There is no opt out, all in means all in." It is true community. I teach in a small town in the midwest where it is really simple to build the community atmosphere around the school community. We just have to be conscious of how the school is an intricate part of the community.
Three things that I saw in the video that I would like to see at my is school is:
ReplyDelete1.I loved his presence in the school. I have come from a district where the principal was always locked in her office, or they were pulled so many ways that they didn't have time or make the time to bond with the students. Luckily for me our new principal this year has made these steps like Hamish Brewer and it has a huge impact on the students and staff.
2. More art work. We have started adding a little bit, but the school feels so much more inviting and uplifting when you are able to see art and students work throughout the hallways and building.
3. The community meetings before school. I think by having the principals bring in the community and set the tone that we are all in this together is huge and very beneficial.
Hamish Brewer in “The Skater Principal Making Education Fun Again” gives us a glimpse into his schools, Occoquan Elementary and Fred Lynn Middle School. Discuss 3 things you saw in this video that you would like to see at your school.
ReplyDeleteI think daylight bulbs rather than regular yellow school bulbs would be great.
I think music in the hallways would be fun in the morning and between classes.
I love the energy he has when he greets the students in the morning when they come in and when they are passing in the hallways.
I love the flag painted on the ceiling tiles in the one room
Also, the mural with all the iconic leaders is neat.
Just love the vibe! Such energy!
1. I really admired the energy he brought to the hallways. His enthusiasm not only helped him connect with the students, but it also encouraged them to get where they needed to be efficiently. It’s a great example of how you can build relationships in a fun way while also earning respect.
ReplyDelete2. I was impressed by how he promoted creativity in his school. The murals he brought into the environment were truly inspiring. Incorporating vibrant art into classrooms and hallways is a wonderful way to engage students and bring energy to the space.
3. The excitement and positive energy surrounding Hamish Brewer were evident, especially when staff members spoke about him. It’s common for morale to dip mid-year, but it was clear the staff felt supported and motivated, eager to come to school each day. The students mirrored this excitement, which I believe stems from the community meeting held at the start of the year. It set clear expectations for families, staff, and students, fostering a sense of unity.
1. The energy- the dance party with the lights the kids having so much fun and truly enjoying their time in the school district. The way the kids truly cheer for Mr. Brewer when he is announced in the gym.
ReplyDelete2. Teacher’s classrooms/designs- I really like how the teachers have free reign in their classroom changing the colors, changing the layout, and making their space their own. I have been in spaces where you have rules about how/if you are allowed to hang things on the wall and he is spray painting his mural on the wall of Relentless.
3. Mr. Brewer himself- while watching this video, the coolest thing I have seen would be Mr. Brewer himself. He is truly involved in these children’s lives he makes an effort to give high fives in the hallways, stands outside and waves as the busses leave, the kids know him and he knows them. He tells them that he loves them every day. He is relentless with what he does for his school/community.
So many kids do not like coming to school. They even state they are bored. Some things I saw in the video that would be great to have at my school: 1) a VISIBLE principal. Someone who motivates students and teachers. Someone who is respected by students.
ReplyDelete2) Kids having fun while learning.
3) unlimited field trips. If it relates to what students are learning in the classroom a field trip makes it real.
It was neat to see the community meet before school and be supportive.
Also, not all classrooms looked and operated the same. My school wants us all the same. Teachers are told not to use supplemental materials. They can only use the curriculum.
The excitement of teaching and students learning was awesome.
The way it should be.
1. I saw kids excited to be in school and teachers excited to see the kids! The energy of the first day of school seems to just flop some years. I love how he opened the doors and let the big crowd of kids come in, welcoming them as they walked in. I think maybe it was the 'big entrance'. Our students trickle in one or two at a time, I think that kind of takes away the climax of the 'big day!'
ReplyDelete2. I saw a principal going in and out of classrooms freely, making kids and teachers aware that he is present, he is there for them, all of them! It seems like our principals have so much on their plate that they can't get away from the office and make it down our hallways. While I do seem them in the hallways between passing periods, I just rarely have a principal 'pop in' and see how class is going without it being an evaluation. I used to have that when I first started teaching and I loved what it did for me (hold me accountable) and for the kids (the principal is more than just an office figure).
3. I loved the assemblies and the energy. It has been a long time since I have seen that kind of energy from the school principal, staff and students. I've been to pep rallies at schools i've worked at without pep! These assemblies in the video had hype! They would be fun to be a part of.
1. Unlimited field trips: there are so many places in our community that kids can visit & feel a connection to. They can share their enthusiasm with their parents & tell them what they learned. I feel parents these days do not share the knowledge & connection that my parents did with me.
ReplyDelete2. Murals that uplifting are a fantastic way to buy into the mindset trying to accomplish. If kids see it each day & feel it in their school, it will help them believe the quotes.
3. Teachers are given the freedom to develop lesson plans that are vital to learning. I loved the idea of developing a city & all the learning that was accomplished in that month long learning. The students will not forget that!
Three things I wish I could have at my school from the video:
ReplyDelete1. I love the daylight light bulbs! I absolutely loathe florescent lights, especially in rooms with no windows and I really think the daylight being mimicked would change student and adult moods who spend hours in the room
2. I loved the interaction with parents and the involvement from the community. It's proven over and over again that we have better success with everyone invested.
3. I love all the murals and paintings and quotes around the schools to make it less "sterile" and more inviting for everyone!
Three things from this video that I'd like to see at my school:
ReplyDelete1. The vibes: I love the general crazy, excited, yet respectful energy that just radiates from this principal. Like one teacher said in the video, that kind of energy is contagious and it only takes one to start spreading that fire!
2. The look: I love how he broke the norm of what a school "should" look like with the graffiti, daylight bulbs, and color everywhere. It really sets the scene for a fun, cozy atmosphere. Plus like he said, the school is our home--why not make it a place we love to look at and be?
3. The love: I want to start normalizing saying "I love you" and hugging students, staff, and parents that are comfortable with it. I wouldn't encroach on someone's personal space, but could start with high fives and pats on the back. I've never really seriously told students that I loved them; for some reason I had it in my head that it was somehow inappropriate or unprofessional. After chatting with fellow teachers at lunch today, I'm going to start saying it, and see how the kids react!
1. Daylight light bulbs! I heard that and thought wow that would be really nice!
ReplyDelete2. A visible principal. I would love to see a principal greeting students in the hallway, giving high fives, coming in to classrooms solely for visiting to see what's going on and not just for drop ins/observations, etc. He really shows the kids how much he cares for them and in turn, the teachers as well.
3. I would love to see assemblies with kids that get them excited. Everything in my school always feels so formal. I would love a principal who is not afraid for students to see them as a human who cares for them instead of a boss who can't let anyone see them have fun.
One of the first things to jump out at me in this video was the wall murals. I would absolutely love to get rid of all of the beige in my classroom and the hallways. Often when physical changes are requested they are not met with the way Mr. Brewer told that teacher he could get a new shelf in his room.
ReplyDeleteThe Second thing was the diverse community buy-in. We are a fairly diverse school, however when there was a community night I did not see an accurate representation of the diversity we have. Actually, a good chunk of the attendees were teachers, so buy-in from the community in general would be awesome!
Finally, the energy and passion for education not only exuded from Mr. Brewer but also from the teachers in his school. When the one teacher said, "this is why I got into teaching," it made me realize we don't see enough of that passion in education. We see a lot more of countdown to retirement and, "I don't get paid enough for this."
Hamish Brewer in “The Skater Principal Making Education Fun Again” gives us a glimpse into his schools, Occoquan Elementary and Fred Lynn Middle School. Discuss 3 things you saw in this video that you would like to see at your school.
ReplyDeleteThe first thing a saw was the murals I like how they have paintings on the wall. I think that the students would really enjoy this or at least be able to see who these people are. Next I liked how he does his morning announcements over the intercom. It seems like it would make the day flow better then having a big group of students in the same room. Lastly his energy and how infectious it is to his staff and the students. I think that would be the best for any school.
I love the murals in the Fred Lynn Middle School. Seeing those inspiring leaders painted on the walls in the halls of your school would be uplifting and remind students and staff what they should strive for each and every day. I agree with Hamish Brewer that school and learning should be about having fun. If students are not interested, invested, and engaged, they won’t learn. Lastly, I would love to see that energy in my school! The way the kids and staff were ready to learn together is awesome!
ReplyDelete(when he speaks with incorrect grammar I cringe--eek)
ReplyDeleteI love how he changes the face of the facility. Changing to daylight bulbs is huge and we feel differently in that lighting, imagine how the kids feel. However, the murals... kids love seeing colorful, fun hall ways, not drab, bland monotones. His energy is contagious as well. To have someone come into a school and commit 7 years to turn around a failing school and do whatever it takes is so commendable. That might not be what my school needs (a turnaround) but the energy and passion should be evident daily so kids can feel that you care and that shows them they are important and learning is important and they can have fun doing it. One thing I would like to see that was not mentioned in this video but was in the book is the Harry Potter style houses of the tribes. Since we do live in South Dakota the tribes and the Native American connection would be a good teaching moment. I like how it makes a family of the entire school but then divides them into four teams for some fun competition and then when a new student joins the school, they spin the wheel to see which tribe they get to join. How fun!
Three things I saw in this video I would like to see at my school.
ReplyDeleteCreating a vibrant and exciting environment. Brewer transformed the school’s atmosphere! He wasn’t hesitant to make a change, and I think that enhances the student’s comfort. I would love it if our school changed its hallways to bring a new energy to the space.
His passion! Brewer’s passion was contagious. He wasn’t afraid to celebrate kids loudly and he modeled what it looks like to lead with heart. More schools need a culture where teachers and leaders feel free to show passion because that creates an inspiring environment for everyone.
Relentless focused. Making there be no doubt that our schools’ policies are always aligned with what’s best for children. I believe my school believes that, but I would love to see it be set on fire.
What I’d Love to See at Our School
ReplyDeleteMore Color
The main part of our school is older, with a newer addition added in 2017. The older section is pretty dark and drab, and I think a little brightness would go a long way. A fresh coat of paint could help liven up the space, and I’d love to see some murals on the walls. We have so many talented student artists—it would be great to showcase their work and let it inspire others.
More Custom Classrooms
This summer, I’m planning to bring more of my own style into my classroom. I’ll be moving to a different school next year, and I want to make my new room feel like mine. I think it’s important for classrooms to reflect who we are as teachers. It gives students a sense of who we are and helps build connections and relationships.
More Visible Teachers
While staff does a decent job being visible in the hallways during transition times, I’d love to see even more of it. When teachers are out in the halls, interacting with students, it sets a positive tone. Those small conversations and smiles can really build relationships and bring good energy to the school.
Windows!!!
Some classrooms in our building don’t have any windows, and others have windows that just face a brick wall. While we obviously can’t tear down walls, I’d love to see more creative solutions—like adding windows that open into the interior hallway to bring in more light and openness. Some teachers have even decorated their “brick wall” windows with blue paper to make it look like the sky. I think it would be awesome if more rooms did something like that. Even a small change can make a big difference in the feel of a space.
That video put a fire inside me! Hamish Brewer has a contagious energy that makes educators want to see change in not only the day to day teaching, but the foundation in which students walk into. The first thing I really like about the school is the large, impactful murals. They are mottos that the school believes in and they are filled with inspirational people. They are also done in a way that connects with students and feels cool. The next thing I liked was his spirit! They way he spoke to students, staff, and families showed his passion. It made them buy into the mission that he is trying to push. Lastly, I really liked that he spoke about learning being fun and school should be a place of love. When you have those two things, how could students not want to show up?!
ReplyDeleteHamish Brewer in “The Skater Principal Making Education Fun Again” gives us a glimpse into his schools, Occoquan Elementary and Fred Lynn Middle School. Discuss 3 things you saw in this video that you would like to see at your school.
ReplyDeleteFirst of all, Hamish Brewers' approach to being a leader/teacher is contagious. His energy and passion is the kind of teacher I strive to be everyday.
Three things that I would like to see at my school is how he was present and made his rounds to each classroom. I can count on one hand how many times our administration has been seen in our elementary halls or classrooms. I think this would help with some of the behavior issues. Second, I love how he teaches respect and how he sets expectations, and third, I like how he spoke to the parents and said we can't do this without you, and how he makes the students accountable for "signing up" and stepping up. He has a way of motivating students to take accountability for themselves.
Things I saw in the video that I would like to see more of in my school are:
ReplyDelete1. The excitement, enthusiasm, and energy. This was evident in the video and it also appeared contagious as it seemed to carry over to students and staff. I would love to see more of that!
2. I would love to see the gang mentality. He clearly has expectations and makes sure everyone is a part of that. Promoting that gang mentality seems to get buy-in and produce results.
3. The color, artwork, lights, etc. were great to see. It definitely brings a uniqueness to the building and I think that just helps to enhance everything his schools have going for them.
Hamish Brewer in “The Skater Principal Making Education Fun Again” gives us a glimpse into his schools, Occoquan Elementary and Fred Lynn Middle School. Discuss 3 things you saw in this video that you would like to see at your school.
ReplyDelete1. Hamish Brewer's energy is amazing! I would love to see our principal and staff bring this level of energy and excitement into the building each and every day.
2. Principal Brewer's presence in the classroom and around the school with the students is inspiring. He is setting the tone and setting the expectations for the students. How great that must be for his teaching staff!
3. I really like that Mr. Brewer plans and allows for many field trips. I think that getting students out of the four walls of a classroom and giving them real life, hands-on experiences can improve learning and give students more motivation to want to come to school. I'm not sure how this works with budgeting, but would like to see more of them at my school.
Hamish Brewer in “The Skater Principal Making Education Fun Again” gives us a glimpse into his schools, Occoquan Elementary and Fred Lynn Middle School. Discuss 3 things you saw in this video that you would like to see at your school.
ReplyDelete1. Passion - Passion is contagious and Hamish Brewer is loaded with it. We do have teachers who are passionate, but Mr. Brewer's passion is beyond the typical passion. If the leader exudes passion, and being that passion and excitement are contagious, I think there is a lot more that could happen and grow in our school.
2. Connection - I would love to see more connection between people in our school. Between teachers and students, students and students, teachers and parents, and school and community. When people come together for a purpose, so much more can be achieved.
3. Community - I love seeing how Mr. Brewer is bringing in the parents and the community. Most people are proud of our school, but there are also the vocal minority that are always critical. I wish the school culture and the connection we had to the community was louder than the nay-sayers. We do have businesses helping with our major event and fundraiser, a 5K, but I'm not sure that we showcase enough what we are doing with those funds. I wish we were creating more opportunities for our students and that the community would also know about those things to excite more passion.
Three things I would like to see at my current school are the walls to be painted with murals. The cream/tan feels like a prison and it’s so outdated and blah. Sure there are a couple paintings of the school mascot but that is not exciting. Another thing would be to see so many teachers excited about the changes even though small, students displaying manners, being on time to class, and walking on the correct side of the hall. These are little, but they were excited by Hamish and were willing to do those small things because they are important. The last thing I would like is a principal who is constantly making rounds and checking in, engaging with the kids, participating in what’s happening in the class. Not just stopping in twice a year for an observation. Seeing the principal in all the classes let students know the admin is engaged in their learning and cares what they are learning and doing while in the building.
ReplyDeleteHamish Brewer in “The Skater Principal Making Education Fun Again” gives us a glimpse into his schools, Occoquan Elementary and Fred Lynn Middle School. Discuss 3 things you saw in this video that you would like to see at your school.
ReplyDeleteI would love to see unlimited field trips/ experiences a tangible thing for teachers to utilize. I would love to have all our lights changed to daylight bulbs instead of florescent. Audio enhanced classrooms students love music and this would be helpful in utilizing this in each classroom.
Hamish Brewer in “The Skater Principal Making Education Fun Again” gives us a glimpse into his schools, Occoquan Elementary and Fred Lynn Middle School. Discuss 3 things you saw in this video that you would like to see at your school.
ReplyDeleteThere were so many amazing things happening in just a short 10 minute video! I would love to see our school coming up with a motto like 'relentless'. It would be awesome to see murals around that around our school. I would also like to see us change to the daylight bulbs. I feel like my classroom is so brutal for lighting. It is so bright and harsh. I would love to see a fix for that. I would also like to see the energy that I saw in the video. The energy from Mr. Brewer, the teachers, and students was contagious. It would also be amazing to see manners come back into our school. I loved hearing saying yes sir and yes ma'am. I think basic manners are so important and are somewhat lost right now. The last thing that would be amazing to see at my school would be the All - In attitude. It would be amazing to have everyone in the district being all -in for our students.
1. The first thing that I noticed was his visibility in the hallways, classrooms, and assemblies. It is important for kids to know that people in their building care for them. Brewer ensures that the students know who he is and what he is about. This would be a positive reinforcement in my building showing that we are all in this together!
ReplyDelete2. I loved the way that he announces each morning that he loves everyone in the building. Relationships are key to creating a positive learning environment. Everyone needs to be loved and appreciated. I believe this would significantly help many students who don't feel valued in my building.
3. Mr. Brewer lets the students know immediately his expectations for each of them. These include working hard, being all in, and failure isn’t an option. These essential elements are critical to success in life. I believe students in my school need clear, precise expectations.
1. I like all the murals around his school. I think it makes schools feel more welcoming and inviting.
ReplyDelete2. His enthusiasm and energy. I think that is something that most schools could always use more of.
3. The "Gang Mentality" . I think its important to show kids and families that it really takes all of us working together to really make changes. It cant just be one person trying to make change.
Three things that I saw in the video that I would want for my school:
ReplyDelete1. I would like to see murals on our walls, and I would like to have our art students do it. A few teachers and I have talked about banners for our gym, and have debated different themes and ideas.
2. I ended up watching two more videos of Hamish and his schools. I love how all the teachers got onboard with the changes and were almost more excited as the students. In one of the videos they showed, the school was preparing to divide the students into five different houses (or hives), the teachers got divided first and then the students. We did something similar but not near as complex in the past but after Covid and a change in administration it was dropped.
3. I was impressed by the soccer game in the second video I watched, there were more than 60 students divided into two teams playing on a football field. The students had to stay after school and do their homework for an hour for two days and then they got to play the third day. The students loved soccer and that is what they selected to do. It was a win-win situation.
1. I love it when the principal is out and walking around in the school. It makes me heartbroken when kids say all the principal does is sit in her/his office all day.
ReplyDelete2. I would love for it be become normal for admin/teachers to say, "I love you" to the kids. That's probably my favorite thing about Hamish!
3. I love how he gets the parents involved and let them know they are a team. I think we can go so much further as a team than just me as a teacher of your child's class.
Hamish Brewer in “The Skater Principal Making Education Fun Again” gives us a glimpse into his schools, Occoquan Elementary and Fred Lynn Middle School. Discuss 3 things you saw in this video that you would like to see at your school.
ReplyDeleteGosh, I would love to have him or someone like him as my principal.
1. His positive energy is absolutely contagious! Not only did he get the kids excited, he got the teachers excited.
2. The relationships he built with parents was amazing. He made sure they know they are part of the team.
3. The art work! I love walking into schools full of color and that mural was fabulous!
1. The sense of community that you could sense from the get-go. You could tell that students and staff were very much a family, and they respected each other. Even the parents at the community meeting.
ReplyDelete2. Hamish Brewer easily telling the students that he loved them. You could tell the students felt valued and cared for. He has shared this consistently through the book, but it was powerful to see in the video.
3. All of the color, quotes, posters, and murals painted on by the staff and others! The celebration of art, for students to see something other than white walls. Art teaches us empathy and expression. I also loved how he painted the word "Relentless" at both schools!
Hamish Brewer in “The Skater Principal Making Education Fun Again” gives us a glimpse into his schools, Occoquan Elementary and Fred Lynn Middle School. Discuss 3 things you saw in this video that you would like to see at your school.
ReplyDeleteThree things I saw in his video that I would like to see in my school is his presence, everyone knows he is the Principal. His announcement in the mornings letting students know he is rooting for them and loves them. Lastly, the energy and enthusiasm for being there everyday!
1. High energy, high expectations. I loved Hamish Brewer's involvement in student spaces and classrooms, and all of the high energy he brought with him. Along with that, even though he is fun and loud, he inspires respect and manners. I thought it was amazing he could do both at the same time.
ReplyDelete2. Artwork - I loved the color and the inspiration from the artwork and murals that he designed.
3. Community buy in - I feel like often in my district there are meetings and open houses and everything is presented to families, and it all feels the same. With his meeting with families he was just as fun as he is with the students everyday at school. I really feel that community and parent buy in is so important, because without it, the efforts that we make during the school day can be stunted.
Hamish Brewer in “The Skater Principal Making Education Fun Again” gives us a glimpse into his schools, Occoquan Elementary and Fred Lynn Middle School. Discuss 3 things you saw in this video that you would like to see at your school.
ReplyDelete1. I loved his energy and the involvement that the kids had within the school. He made them feel like they do belong in school, along with holding them to the expectations.
2. Adding in art in the school to make it feel welcome and give it more than "just a school" vibe.
3. He wanted community support and he didn't want to fail the community. He wanted to make sure they were involved and he wanted to show them that he wanted their school system to be successful.
1. I love how he is seen and knows the kids. He is driven for the kids. He is so energetic and the kids know he is there for them. "Was I better for kids today?"
ReplyDelete2. The paintings on the wall. The kids get to do it and be proud of it. It makes the school theirs. It also makes you feel like you are in a fun place, which at some schools, you don't feel that. Some of the murals can inspire the children.
3. The teachers love him. He leads by example and it makes you want to be energetic and grow relationships and just be better. It would be nice to see that everyday.
1. Organizing parent meetings to get parents involved in the school and community.
ReplyDelete2. The paintings on the wall to inspire kids and make them proud of their school.
3. Him telling his student's he loves them because some of them maybe have never heard it or had not that day.
1. I like the positive attitudes.
ReplyDelete2. I like the artwork on the walls. It looks positive and welcoming.
3. The kids believe him and are willing to work with him.
1. Helping students hear the message that they are worthy, valuable, capable, and loved just the way they are. He is passionate about making sure that they know those things. Breathing hope for their futures into the students will have far reaching and significant returns on investment.
ReplyDelete2. I like that he builds genuine relationships with all stakeholders. The love and mutual respect is apparent.
3. I love how he encourages teachers to think outside the box to inspire students to do great things. To dream the impossible and go after it relentlessly.
ReplyDelete1. I really thought having the community event was important because it set the expectation for the rest of the year.
2. Stakeholders heard the same message at the same time. There is a sense of community and transparency with that first community of the year.
3.I really thought the energy and enthusiasm was contagious. Teachers and students were buying into the relentless mantra
He follows through. He is visible. He is making his educational rounds. Kids know who the principal is and he is building relationships.
1. The parent meeting: the turn out was amazing. I teach in a high school and I would love to see this turnout for our students and parents. We will see this type of attendance for the new incoming freshman, but not the upper classmen. Many parents also do not get involved with their child's school.
ReplyDelete2.The educational rounds the Brewer made on the first day. The excitement was contagious and the students were visibility glad to be there. They were already excited to tackle the school year.
3. Art: I love the artwork through the building. It made it more homey and inviting than just white walls.
The three things that I would like to see at my school are...
ReplyDelete1.) Mr. Brewer’s way of greeting kids outside of school, in the classroom, or in the hallways. This shows how connected he wants to be to the students and how he cares for them too. 2.) Hamish’s energy and enthusiasm! How great that would be for the students to see every day from ALL staff and not to mention how it would help my outlook on the day too. 3.) Manners & respect being stressed by Hamish shows the importance he places on them and it is done in a casual interaction with students. These are often overlooked by students and adults but are vital to a positive interaction.
1. I would like to see the energy and enthusiasm that Hamish Brewer has displayed by our administration and staff every day throughout the hallways and when we greet students.
ReplyDelete2. I would like to see our building have inspiring and motivating murals on our walls that tie into our building goals.
3. I would like to see our students have field trips. We used to do one field trip a year as a reward for our students, but we haven’t been able to do that for several years due to the cost.
One of the things that I saw Mr. Brewer do in the video that I would like to see at our school is to be able to give more field trips. I know that unlimited may be pushing it but we are only allowed one field trip per grade level at our school. Second, I would like our teachers to have as much enthusiasm as Mr. Brewer. That type of energy is definitely contagious. I feel like a lot of our teachers think that if we are energetic then the kids will be out of control. I just want them to see that we are passionate. Last, I would like to see our school get a face lift in some areas. As I have said before, we are a 100 year old building and I think that we have to put more effort into making our school appealing than many other schools.
ReplyDelete1. Artwork is Power! Our school has a deep level of diversity, and we have the clubs to back it up. I would love to encourage our student and teacher artists to display strong leaders on walls of our highest traffic areas. Seeing these strong people and perhaps words of empowerment would be inspiring. They would provide reminders to keep chasing 100.
ReplyDelete2. I think community buy-in is key. We work hard at our school with Freshmen orientation, and parent turnout is huge. However, it dies off after Freshmen year. I don't think parents are collectively apathetic. I think they are busy and believe their students are in good hands, but we need them as staunch stakeholders to reinforce our norms, help as volunteers, and support us in trying new things. Plus, they have great ideas, but we don't always hear them when they don't speak.
3. Energy! This is difficult emotion to display every day as the school year is long. I tell my students that I feed on their energy and that it is tough to bring the noise when they are so low. Students feed off their teachers in the same way that teachers feed off their admin. It's difficult to be in a bad mood around so much positivity.
Hamish Brewer in “The Skater Principal Making Education Fun Again” gives us a glimpse into his schools, Occoquan Elementary and Fred Lynn Middle School. Discuss 3 things you saw in this video that you would like to see at your school.
ReplyDelete1. I would love to see more art in our hallways. We just redid our whole High School and would love to see even more. I think it would be fantastic if we got the students involved in creating murals around the school. I think the whole district could use a facelift!
2. The comment where he said we need to be the students advocate. That hit home to me because, some students might not get that at home. Their voices need to be heard!
3. The energy that Hamish Brewer brings is INSANE! The more energy and positive you are, the students will start seeing that and will want to replicate the same. Our school could use that kind of energy because their are days where students do not want to go to school. With that energy, students would be eager to keep showing up!
1. Manners: simple respect goes a long way to showing someone you care,
ReplyDelete2. Better communication between admin and teachers with family situations change. We look like mud on our face when parents speak to us like we should know they're getting divorced and let the school know.
3. better teacher moral. the teachers looked excited to be teaching again. That's because Mr. Brewer is an open book. What you see is what you get. He's got your back.
Hamish is very inspiring. Three things I would like to see are:
ReplyDelete1. Excitement and Energy. This goes a LONG way with students. It gains their attention and focus! This would be very beneficial.
2. Communication. Communicating with ALL parents so they know we are a team and all need to be on the same page
3. Murals and Art work! I painted a mural in my music room and the students LOVED it! They enjoy things they can relate to.