By Janet Lewis – Principal

In today’s educational landscape, schools face unprecedented challenges. Addressing these challenges requires more than just administrative management; it calls for the creation of an environment where students are at the heart of everything we do. The key lies in an approach that combines empathy with effectiveness: leading with the heart and the mind. This was the theme of the Latin American Heads Conference held in Santiago this October, where speakers like Dr. Jim Heal, Professor of Evidence-Informed Educational Leadership and author of How Teaching Happens – Transforming How We Teach and Learn; Dr. Kaisa Vourinen from Finland; Jack Dill (LAT 90) from the UK; and Gonzalo Munoz from Chile emphasized the importance of prioritizing students in our educational practices.

It was gratifying to see that the discussions at the conference reflect elements we already consider at Nordic International School. We are committed to implementing strategies that genuinely impact the holistic development of our students. This alignment reinforces our belief that fostering an empathetic culture, designing personalized curricula, and understanding the science of learning are not just theoretical concepts but practical steps we actively embrace. As we move forward, we recognize that these principles guide our daily practices, ensuring that every student feels valued, engaged, and empowered. 

1. Creating an Empathetic Culture

Leading with the heart begins by cultivating a culture of empathy within the school. This means that both educators and leaders must strive to understand the needs, emotions, and aspirations of their students. By fostering an environment where students’ voices are heard and valued, we establish connections that extend beyond the classroom. Mentorship programs and social-emotional learning activities are effective tools for building this culture from the ground up.

There has been a dispositional shift from problem-solving to problem-setting. As educators, it is crucial that we avoid getting lost in administrative tasks such as managing absences, organizing class covers, and handling agendas. Instead, we must dedicate sufficient time to improving the learning experience, student progress, and overall well-being. This shift towards educational leadership is essential for enhancing our practices and fostering an enriching educational environment.

2. Personalized Curriculum Design

To place students at the center, it is essential that the curriculum is flexible and adapts to diverse learning needs and styles. A personalized approach allows students to explore their interests and develop skills at their own pace. This involves scaffolding each individual student’s learning path based on their prior knowledge. As Ausubel (1968) stated, “The most important single factor influencing learning is what the learner already knows.”

By implementing active methodologies such as Project-Based Learning, educators can connect content to students’ real lives. This method activates their existing knowledge and encourages them to ask, “What do you want to know?” This approach not only aligns with cognitive theories but also fosters meaningful and relevant learning experiences.

3. Understanding the Science of Learning

A vital aspect of centering students is providing them with the autonomy to make decisions about their own learning. At Nordic, we give students the opportunity to take charge of their educational journey by creating spaces for them to choose projects, elective courses, and evaluation methods. Empowering students teaches them to take responsibility for their learning, which enhances both their engagement and self-confidence.

This approach is supported by a set of principles derived from cognitive science, demonstrating positive effects on student learning. Educators must employ teaching strategies that reflect these principles, ensuring that each student has access to meaningful and lasting learning experiences. Additionally, based on neuroscience, it is crucial that educators manage the cognitive load of all learners. If students are overwhelmed with too much information in a single day, they are unlikely to retain much of it by the end.

The concept of Leading with the Heart and the Mind is not just a philosophy; it is a commitment to transforming education by placing students at the center of our efforts. This was a central theme at the recent Latin American Heads Conference, where educators gathered to share insights and strategies that emphasize the importance of well-being, personalized learning, and the new leadership styles.

By fostering an empathetic culture, designing personalized curricula, and understanding how students learn best, schools can create environments where students thrive both academically and emotionally. At Nordic International School, we are dedicated to this mission, ensuring that our students not only succeed in their studies but also grow as well-rounded citizens prepared for the future. Our teachers are integral to this process. As mentors and guides, they embody the principles of a growth mindset and are committed to nurturing each student’s unique potential. 

Through initiatives like the See the Good program, we reaffirm our commitment to the well-being and happiness of our students, recognizing that they are truly at the center of everything we do. This holistic approach empowers our students to develop the skills and mindset necessary for lifelong learning and meaningful contributions to society. The insights gained from the conference further inspire us to enhance our practices, ensuring that we lead with both heart and mind in every aspect of our educational journey.