Committing to Community
On September 17, 1787 the founding fathers of the United States of America signed the Constitution declaring a list of fundamental principles for how our American country would run. Just like heroes Thomas Jefferson, George Washington, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Alexander Hamilton, John Jay, and James Madison, our Acton heroes drafted, debated, edited, discussed, and yesterday on October 3, 2024 ratified their Acton constitution also known as Studio Promises/Contract. One by one learners reviewed their studio contract and just like the founding fathers they used a feather pen to sign their name. Whether 4 or 12 years old the Acton contract creation is a thrill, it is an opportunity to be part of something great, part of a community of heroes that honors and respects the heroic journey of learning to learn, learning to do, and learning to be.
Many people are baffled by our little Acton school, especially when we share that learners make the rules. At times it may appear like chaos however at Acton the mess is where meaning is. The dirty floor or the confusion during a game may feel hard but what is most important is learners at Acton want to be here, they want to contribute, they want to help, they want to excel, and they are committed to growing and serving their community. As hard as it may be for us adults to invite children to create their own rules and hold one another accountable without adult intervention or “fixing” the process, a learner-driven school is worth every moment of adult frustration. Learners leading is right. We know this by the pride in their eyes and the excitement they have to share the promises voting process.
Just like our country’s Constitution, each studio contract holds fundamental principles that keep everyone safe, honors excellence, and commits to the journey of a hero that is part of a community. Building the Nest is all about building a community where everyone feels welcome, everyone feels safe, and all learners feel inspired, equipped, and connected to learn to learn, learn to do, and learn to be their most heroic self! As arduous as it was for learners to create their promises, the true work begins next, learners must uphold and keep their promise! Building the nest is beautifully messy work that is equal parts difficult and meaningful.
In honor of our school’s growing journey I’d like to share a moment from my own journey that continues to inspire me today. Over a decade ago when I came to Oshkosh I experienced a major shift in my thinking. I was inspired by one of my mentors, cellist Yo-Yo Ma who encouraged me to think about the impact I could make on my small community. He changed the famous JFK quote to say “Ask not what your community can do for you, ask what you can do for your community.” My world of lonely competitive musical performance shifted to embrace my gifts of community connection. This shift in mindset not only filled my cup, filled the cup of others, rapidly advanced my career, helped me find passions, and most importantly supported the many people around me that I love. I later shared my experience with Yo-Yo and with a big hug he said “this is what it’s all about!” This JFK and Yo-Yo concept of community building is also what Acton is all about.
How are you committing to your community? Do you actively give to and support those around you? I challenge you to consider your impact.