March 10, 2022

Hello Peter Hobart Community,

We are so proud that Superintendent Astein Osei chose to highlight Peter Hobart in his Flow Communicator this week. In conjunction with International Women's Day, Astein highlighted the amazing work of Anne LaLonde Laux, our Curriculum Coordinator; and third Grade teacher Ashley Hall and how they are helping to empower our students to use their voices:

As we celebrated International Women’s Day yesterday, I want to take a moment to express gratitude for the work that each of you do on a daily basis to create gender equality through your nurturing of our students' brilliance. I recently had a conversation with Anne LaLonde Laux, IB, PD and Curriculum Coordinator at Peter Hobart Elementary, that highlighted the importance of student voice and creating learning experiences that energize and enhance the spirit. 

Each Friday, Anne meets with five Peter Hobart 5th graders and interviews them to be featured in the school's weekly newsletter. During her interviews she seeks to learn more about when they started at Peter Hobart; things/events that bring them joy; their advice for younger students; and how as an IB learner, they want to use their knowledge and care to make the world a better, more equitable, and peaceful place.
 
Last week, 5th grader Kadija was interviewed and, as she was responding to the question about what brought her joy, she shared the following, "Ms. Hall (3rd grade Peter Hobart teacher) is 90% of the reason I can talk with you right now. Ms. Hall taught me how important it is to make my voice heard and that I add value. She helped me understand and learn things in different ways by sharing stories, real life - relevant examples, and her own personal experiences."
 
The manner in which Ms. Hall has created the conditions for Kadija to be seen, inspired, empowered and develop confidence in her brilliance is critical. Thank you Ms. Hall and thank you all for creating these conditions for our students on a daily basis. 
 
International Women’s Day 2022: #BreakTheBias theme is about:
 
  • imagining a gender equal world;
  • a world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination;
  • a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive; and
  • a world where difference is valued and celebrated.

I firmly believe that the learning environments we have created are contributing to the theme of International Women’s Day 2022 and I continue to be proud of our transformational work in St. Louis Park Public Schools.

With much appreciation,

Astein