Lakeside School

One of my favorite childhood characters was Curious George. I was drawn to his wide eyes, endless questions, and fearless approach to the world and adventure. He did not wake up each morning intending to cause trouble; he simply wanted to understand how things worked. Each adventure brought new lessons, deeper relationships, and meaningful growth.

I see that same spirit alive in our students every day.

Curious George teaches us first that curiosity is powerful. Our students demonstrate this constantly, whether leading clubs that design intricate puzzles for the entire community to solve; building detailed fictional worlds that analyze hierarchy, systems of government, and role specialization; vibe coding; or diving deep into fantasy sports leagues where trades are negotiated and player selections are defended using detailed statistical analysis. These are not small undertakings. They are evidence of minds actively exploring, questioning, and creating.

Second, George models problem-solving. When things go wrong, he does not quit. He experiments, adapts, and tries again. I see that perseverance when students wrestle with complex math problems, analyze their Skittles flavor taste test hypotheses in Biology, collaborate to refine a club project or solve a community problem, or create persuasive propaganda speeches from the perspective of characters in “Animal Farm.” They are learning to think critically and to persist.

Third, George reminds us that curiosity sometimes leads to missteps. Exploration can result in messes. (Could you imagine what trouble George would have gotten into if he had a cell phone!?) Middle school is no different. As students test ideas and boundaries, they are also learning about consequences and responsibility, a completely healthy and necessary part of development.

Fourth, the friendship between George and the Man with the Yellow Hat highlights the importance of steady, supportive relationships. Growth happens best when students feel known and valued. Strong friendships and trusted adults anchor them as they explore. Our students have access to advisors, counselors, nurses, and an array of student support staff who will be there to provide support as they grow.

Finally, George teaches us the value of adventure and stepping just beyond what feels comfortable. Whether trying a new activity, launching a new club, leading a discussion, or performing in the school musical “The Drowsy Chaperone” for the first time, our students are practicing courage year-round.

Our role as educators — and yours at home — is much like the Man with the Yellow Hat. We provide space for curiosity while offering guardrails and guidance. We allow discovery, but we remain present. In doing so, we help students channel their curiosity into creativity, responsibility, and leadership.

And that is an adventure worth embracing together.

Important dates for March

• Monday, March 2-Tuesday, March 3: Purim
   
• Wednesday, March 4-Friday, March 6: 5th-Grade Outdoor Trip to NatureBridge
   
• Tuesday, March 5: 6th-Grade Service Learning Day
   
• Friday, March 6, 7-9:30 p.m.: Middle School Dance #3 (Grades 7-8), Middle School Gym
   
• Friday, March 13, 8:30-9:30 a.m.: Middle School Parent/Guardian Webinar with Administrators, Middle School Dining Room East; on Zoom
   
• Tuesday, March 17, 7-8:30 p.m.: Middle School Experiential Education Night, on Zoom
   
• Wednesday, March 18: End of Ramadan
   
• Wednesday, March 18: 7th-Grade Service Learning Day
   
• Wednesday, March 18, 7-8:30p.m.: Dan Ayrault Memorial Lecture featuring Megan Asaka '99, St. Nicholas Hall (Upper School)
   
• Thursday, March 19: Eid al Fitr
   
• Thursday, March 19, 3:30-6 p.m.: Middle School Student Social Event #3 (5th and 6th grade)
   
• Friday, March 20: Nowruz
   
• Monday, March 23, 7-8:30 p.m.: Parent/Guardian Webinar - The Authentic Connections Survey: Insights & Future Directions, presented by the human development and health department on Zoom
   
• Thursday, March 26: Spring Semester Mid-Point
   
• Friday, March 27: Faculty Workday; No Classes
   
• Monday, March 30: Lakeside Giving Day Begins at Noon
   
• Tuesday, March 31: Lakeside Giving Day Ends at Noon

Jesus Soler is Lakeside’s Middle School assistant director. Reach him at info@lakesideschool.site or 206-440-2856.