"Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all.” Aristotle
Heart. That single word encompasses so much of what being part of FISD means to me. In Friendswood, the education of the heart is not second to the education of the mind and it is obvious in everything we do. F.I.S.D. has always valued students; not only their minds but also their hearts.
Of course, we have a curriculum to promote Social Emotional Learning (SEL).We take time to connect with students in the classroom each morning and to share what is going on in each other's lives. We learn how to be better to ourselves and each other and how to reflect on our behaviors so we can improve them.
Yet, Friendswood’s “Heart” education goes beyond curriculum; it is a mindset that is ingrained in our community. When my four children were going through FISD, I vividly remember teachers or administrators taking time in the evenings to call to discuss a concern, explain an encounter, or advise me of a special moment. These teachers and administrators went above and beyond because of who they are; because they are teaching heart through their words and actions. This is the caring community of which I treasure being a part and for which I am so grateful.
Every day at Bales, I see these spontaneous heart events in the classroom, on the playground, in the lunchroom, and in the hallway where teachers, staff, and administrators slow down and take time to show they care exhibiting the true heart of Friendswood. It may be an obvious need when a child is crying or in distress, or it could be a quick observation when they see a sad face. Someone may give a spontaneous smile, pause to say hello, or give a hug to a child who may not get many positive interactions. These small moments are happening constantly on our campus and by example, we are teaching students the importance of “heart” in education.
I am so proud of how FISD is educating the heart of the child not only explicitly through lessons but also by example. This comes from the community, the parents, the staff, the administrators, the Board, the teachers AND the students. We all naturally demonstrate how to care for each other and respect each other. This is the “Heart” education about which Aristotle was speaking.
In Friendswood, we are all part of not only educating the mind but also the heart. This is only one of the many reasons I am grateful for and proud to be part of F.I.S.D. I have been blessed to have been a part of the “heart” education in F.I.S.D. for the last 21 years!
-Sharon Dixon, Bales 5th Grade Teacher
