something to pass the time

Jacob’s experience at Williamsburg Academy has been second to none. His growth has been exponential. He came through midterms with amazing results. And if you will indulge the prideful mama in me… he got an honors on his written test (the only honors in the class I might add).

Mr. Ure doesn’t give away grades. Students are graded against themselves and their own potential. He meets with them regularly and individually and he knows them. He knows their strengths and weaknesses. The bar is set high. And the education becomes their own. Jacob’s written exam was not the best in the class. Nor did it have the most breadth or depth. After all he’s among the youngest in the group. But it was his absolute best work.

Jacob brought this passage from Do Hard Things to me yesterday:

“The Myth of Adolescence tries to get you in one of two ways. The first is to flat-out brainwash you with low expectations. If that doesn’t work, it happily paints you as an exception. In this case, being an exception means that compared to the irresponsibility, immaturity, and incompetence expected from teenagers, you are officially ‘above average.’

Wow! A gold star for you!

But wait a minute. Being labeled an exception when you’re barely even trying quickly turns into a trap of its own. You can become like Sarah, floating along on your above average status in a river of meager requirements. Your gold star reduces the chances that you’ll ever live up to your actual potential.” (italics added)

The conversation that followed went something like this…

Jacob: This is how I feel.

Me: What do you mean?

Jacob: I’ve always received lots of compliments about being a good kid. But I never had to work for it before. Being at Williamsburg I’m surrounded by others who were in the same situation. Now we’re really expected to step up and fulfill our own potential. It’s hard work!

The conversation continued and by the end I was thankful again for James (Mr. Ure). At this age in an adolescent’s life it’s important to have an outside mentor. Because regardless of your relationship, in their eyes their parents have to be nice to them. Your mom will always tell you you’re amazing. It doesn’t have the same value. But more than that…

James’ influence and mentoring is helping Jacob to see the potential which lies within. And inspiring him to do the hard work to achieve it.

By the way… Williamsburg has a few slots opening up at the semester break.

Whew! I hadn’t intended to write an entire post this morning. It just snuck up on me. What I wanted to do was post this video.

For each era of history they study in class they do a creative project. Jacob involved his siblings (and a few neighborhood kids) in this one on the westward expansion of America. It’s hilarious. The bloopers at the end are the best (one of which explains why Miss B’s role is such a small one).

Let me know what you think!