From the Director’s Chair
Greetings DECATS Families!
The second week of the program has drawn to a close, but we are nowhere near the end of our exploration. The Scholars continually wow me with their discoveries, breakthroughs, and use of creative and critical thinking as they continue to plumb the depths of the great power that they possess. Scholars are collaborating to design and create cookies that are delightful to see and taste (“Edible Art”), a creative group of architects are making a plan to try and survive various extreme weather scenarios (“To The Extreme”), and aspiring disc golfers are fending off rain and wetlands to perfect their putts and drives (“Ultimate Disc Course”). 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 the Houston Society for the Prevention of the Cruelty of Animals.
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 talented 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
