By Bridget Cook ‘14

A committee of teachers and school staff recently formed with the goal of highlighting the importance of non-cognitive traits in students. This committee, headed by social studies teacher Aileen Woolley, aligns with the new strategic planning framework created by MCPS to build character and instill non-academic performance traits in students.

Originally, about ten staff members committed to brainstorming for this project. After a September 9 staff meeting at which Woolley and committee members math teacher Tim Altaner and science teacher Janet Frensilli presented the project, about 50 staff members ranging from teachers to security signed up to join a book club. Principal Bill Gregory purchased copies of “How Children Succeed” by Paul Tough for interested staff to read and discuss.

At the after school and lunchtime book clubs set to begin in October, club members will discuss the book “How Children Succeed” and brainstorm ways to ensure that traits such as self-control and perseverance become more prevalent in the students of Sherwood. This book will be discussed for three months, then in January, members will discuss specific ways to bring character traits to Sherwood.

“I got really excited about the power of character in children’s lives … the big question was: How can we foster character in the classroom?” Woolley said. Academic learning is undoubtedly a vital part of school, but Woolley hopes to go beyond just academic knowledge and stress non-cognitive learning in her teaching.

Frensilli is also eager to begin working on integrating the character traits. “I believe that non-cognitive traits are important not only for academic success but for success in life.  Teachers can empower students to enhance the traits that they already have and help them develop the traits that they need to be successful,” she said.

Woolley also emphasizes that character traits play a key role in the success of students beyond their time in high school.

“Lots of people think Mr. Tough is talking about moral character, but it’s about the character traits connected to performance,” she said. Grit is crucial because it helps students recover and move on after a failure. Conscientiousness is an integral characteristic for students because it helps them set appropriate priorities. Curiosity develops a hungry mind that is engaged by academic work. Other important non-cognitive traits highlighted by the committee include social intelligence, zest and gratitude. “I’m hoping the awareness and practice of these skills will become part of every Warrior,” said Woolley.