Joy in learning; curiosity in life; and compassion in all we do.
The words were carefully chosen and intentional—joy over happiness; curiosity over achievement; and compassion over empathy. The word “joy” cultivates a sense of lasting inner peace that emanates from the individual; while happiness is fleeting and externally motivated. The word “curiosity” evokes a sense of wonderment that leads to deep intellectual engagement and attainment of knowledge and skills; while achievement evokes a superficial level of success, like getting a good grade or a perfect score. The word “compassion” extends beyond empathy, imploring us to not just feel, but to act on our sympathies and do something to improve the lives of others. In just twelve simple yet powerful words, we convey in our mission all that we aspire to do each day in the Lexington Public Schools.
1. We all Belong: We are inclusive of all people, and we embrace and serve one another. We are dedicated to working toward mutual understanding of all cultures, backgrounds, identities, ideas, beliefs, learning styles, and abilities that are different from our own. In our community, we all bring unique skills, perspectives, and experiences. We create a safe and supportive learning environment when we work to ensure that everyone is honored and respected.
2. Use Your Mind: To learn and grow, we must continually seek new knowledge, think critically, know how to process information and apply skills to new situations. We seek out other points of view and work to understand the perspective of others. We recognize that all learning requires failure and making mistakes. We grow from these experiences and strive to continually challenge ourselves to our highest ability.
3. Be Curious and Have Fun: Joyful learning is fueled by an inquisitive mindset, a questioning attitude, and an imaginative, playful spirit. Mastery of facts and skills is not enough. Active inquiry, application of skills, good humor, and productive struggle are the hallmarks of deep, lifelong learning
4. Care for Yourself and Others: We nurture empathy and compassion for one another and care for our own well-being and that of others. When we seek joy for ourselves and nurture our own mental, physical, and emotional health and well-being, we are able to share our gifts with others.
5. Do Your Part: As members of communities, both small and large, we are united in many purposes. When we encounter challenges or conflicts, we work together with confidence and humility. None of humanity’s great accomplishments were done in isolation. Members of our community meet each other where they are and are invested in one another’s success.
6. Be Courageous: Doing the right thing requires daily practice. When we act with integrity and moral courage, even our small actions can lead to big changes. We believe it is our obligation to serve and care for others in our local and global communities and stand up for just causes, even when it might be unpopular to do so.
7. Embrace Your Revolutionary Spirit: We are pioneers and innovators with the power to make meaningful, lasting change. We take bold and thoughtful risks, and we do not shy away when it is our time to lead. We resist the urge to make changes for the sake of change, and we willingly embrace new ideas that hold long-term promise and help us grow.
8. You are Enough: We are all, at this moment, on unique paths. Life is a personal journey that is our own and not to be compared with others. Everyone has moments of doubt. Persevere. There is no one definition of success. We get to define and redefine success throughout our lifetime.