Letter from the Board of Principals
Respect – The Core Value that PennSchool Constantly Strives for
Happy New Year to our PennSchool community! As we wrap up January, we renew our focus on one of our core values – Respect. I am delighted to share the numerous ways our school has embodied this value over the past month.
Much like words such as “empathy,” “love,” and “compassion,” respect is universally acknowledged as a positive attribute. Yet, its true essence is complex and multifaceted, varying in interpretation depending on cultural backgrounds, contexts, and even grammatical usage as a verb or noun. The concept of respect can shift in meaning from a parent instructing a teenager to “show some respect,” to philosophers debating “respect for persons.” This ambiguity in understanding respect was succinctly captured by the American legend Aretha Franklin, who sang, “R-E-S-P-E-C-T, find out what it means to ME!” This lyric not only underlines the individuality inherent in the concept of respect but also reminds us of the importance of understanding and honoring each person’s unique perspective on what it means to be respected.
At PennSchool, respect is more than just a word; it’s a guiding principle that permeates every aspect of our community. Respect involves acknowledging, appreciating, and valuing the diversity of thoughts, experiences, and backgrounds that each individual brings. It’s about creating an environment where everyone feels included, heard, and valued. This month, we recognize the Martin Luther King Jr. Day as his life is a profound expression of this value. Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy, we embraced his teachings on non-violence and equality. Our students proudly displayed our school colors and participated in TEDxYouth@PennSchool, speaking eloquently on themes of embracing diversity & inclusion, and the importance and impact of youth activism.
Another highlight this month was our student-led conferences, where we welcomed Parents into PennSchool. These conferences are not just academic presentations but a demonstration of mutual respect between students, educators, and Parents. They reflect our commitment to a collaborative educational journey, where each stakeholder’s role is valued and respected.
Our annual TEDxYouth@PennSchool event further underscored the theme of respect. The talks, focusing on crucial topics like youth activism, the future of renewable energy, and embracing diversity and inclusion, were a testament to our students’ deep understanding and commitment to these issues. Through their presentations, students showed respect for our planet, for each other, and for the power of youth in driving positive change.
As we continue through this year, let us all carry forward the essence of respect in our interactions both within and beyond PennSchool. By fostering an environment of mutual respect, we not only enhance our learning experiences but also contribute to building a more empathetic and understanding world.
Thank you to everyone in our community for your ongoing support and dedication to these values. Here’s to a year filled with learning, growth, and respect at every turn.
Warm regards,
Mr. Tim Nelson – AP Principal
