From the Director’s Chair
Greetings DECATS Families!
The second week of the program has drawn to a close, our momentum and powers continue to grow, and they show no signs of slowing. The Scholars continually wow me with their discoveries, breakthroughs, and use of creative and critical thinking as they continue to exhibit the great power that they possess. Budding photographers have chronicled their vision via the lens of a camera (“Through A Different Lens”), a creative group of architects are making a plan to try and save Venice (“The Sky’s the Limit”), and many LEGO robots are being expertly programmed to follow increasingly complex commands (“LEGO Robotics”). The final week of our adventure promises even more fun and discovery.
Our “Manners” Scholars refined their social skills of introductions and small talk. They look forward to putting all of these skills into practice on Tuesday during our Manners to Morals Day. “Executive Functioning” Scholars explored and practiced ways to strengthen working memory, initiative, materials management and social coordination. During “Wellness,” Scholars discussed stressors, healthy body image and nutrition. Our “Values & Morals” Scholars were hard at work with their service project, a donation drive to benefit Texas Children’s Hospital.
Our Graduate Assistants gave Scholars an epic challenge this week. On Friday, Scholars of each grade level were invited to wear a different color. The highest percentage group has the opportunity to choose a song that the GAs would have to sing unassisted at an assembly in our final week. You better believe those crazy colors came out in droves, and our GAs are going to bring down the house in an assembly next week.
I have gotten so many wonderful messages from families who are experiencing the impact that DECATS is having in their lives. We are blessed to have such wonderful Mentors with whom I have the pleasure to work. They are a tremendous collection of world-class educators. Let us know what your Scholars are saying about their DECATS experience. If we may use your comments online and in other projects, let us know that as well.
In Gratitude,
Chris Siemann
Program Director, Strake Jesuit
