Dear Bulldog Parents & Caregivers,

What does it mean to be humble? C.S. Lewis said, “Humility is not thinking less of yourself but thinking of yourself less.” In order to create a school community where everyone feels a sense of belonging, it is important to learn that we all have a culture worth sharing and celebrating, and the humility to approach others with kindness, respect, and the curiosity to learn from one another.  

Dr. James Knight shares these words, “Alfred Adler claimed that every child is born into a new and different family. He believed that with every additional member, family dynamics shift and therefore a new family is born. If we extend Adler's thinking into today's cultural context, we might conclude: “Every family is born into a new and different culture." It is important for us to understand the cultural context in which we are living and working and practice cultural humility by giving space for a healthy exchange of ideas where both parties learn and gain understanding.”

Over the past year, Dr. Knight has worked closely with our district leaders to bring the message of cultural humility to Olmsted Falls Schools:
 

• Small groups of staff members have participated in more focused learning and a book study to explore these concepts as part of Cultural Humility cohorts.
   

• Olmsted Falls student leaders from the high school and the middle school participated in the “With Heart” student summit last spring, where they engaged with students from other school districts to share experiences and learn from one another. 
   

• Dr. Knight spoke to all staff during a professional development day in November about creating a culture of respect and kindness for self and others.
   

• Dr. Knight will share his message with our middle school and high school students at all-school assemblies over the next week. (Middle and high school parents - watch for additional details to follow from the building principals.)

Dr. Knight’s message is one that we believe ALL Olmsted Falls parents and caregivers should hear too. We invite you and your children to join Dr. Knight for Humble Conversations on Wednesday, March 8, 2023  at 6:45 PM at Olmsted Falls High School.

Humble Conversations are rooted in a framework built upon the belief that what our world needs now more than ever is a dose of humility. Join Dr. Knight as he discusses the importance of cultural humility in building deeper connections across differences. Diversity is something to be embraced, not feared.

All parents are welcome and encouraged to register HERE for this program. Students are welcome, too! While the message is appropriate for all, some of the concepts may not resonate yet with our younger Bulldogs. We will have childcare available onsite if you would like to utilize it for young children. Simply indicate on the registration form that you need it.

Dr. Knight is a dynamic and engaging speaker. You won’t regret spending this time with others in our school community who are curious to learn more, listen with their hearts, and seek to understand others and their perspectives. 

Sincerely,

Dr. Jim Lloyd

Superintendent

jlloyd@ofcs.net

Julianne Allen

Family Engagement & Communication Specialist

jallen@ofcs.net

To learn more about Dr. James Knight, visit www.leadwithhumility.org