Seeing with Heart
“It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye.” ~ The Little Prince, by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
While the following reflections are focused on the International School of Zug and Luzern (ISZL), I believe these reflections are also generally applicable to all schools and organisations, particularly in terms of identifying factors that lead to communities becoming highly positive, collaborative, and unique learning and work environments.
Students at ISZL chose “iconic” as the theme for the 2017-18 yearbook, and it is a most fitting choice when reflecting on my first year and my learning about the school. A prevailing sentiment that has emerged from student comments is that ISZL represents much more than just a school. It is, in fact, the shared experiences with special people that make ISZL such an extraordinary place.
The words from the “iconic” book, The Little Prince, by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, may best explain these sentiments: “It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye.” These words are apropos to ISZL’s context in the sense that the school may only be fully understood by looking beyond what is readily visible. While you cannot necessarily see the sense of belonging, the supportive environment, and the feeling of safety when first visiting the campus, there is a palpable awareness of their presence. The same is true about the optimism, positive energy, and sense of promise. There is a discernible feeling on campus that anything is possible, the future is bright, and there is an opportunity to be part of something special while contributing to making a positive difference.
There is a serious and disciplined commitment to academic learning but also a sense of enjoyment and play. Students and teachers move with purpose during their free time as they prepare to engage with the seemingly endless list of activities, clubs, charities, trips, and sports that exemplify the ISZL learning experience. There is an appreciation that the culture of learning is a ubiquitous presence on campus.
Finally, and perhaps most importantly, we can see that relationships are the foundation of what makes ISZL special. What is not necessarily easy to see is how profound and respectful the relationships between staff, students, and parents are at the school, and how this commitment to others represents the fundamental factor that contributes to making ISZL and schools in general such special places.
Lecturer at Bath College
5 年I heard it said many times that 'The Little Prince' is?allegory for what autism feels like.? As an autist, I would say that this holds true. very true.? Thank you.?
Innovation and Enterprise at Beech Hall School Riyadh. First and presently only fully inclusive school in Riyadh Saudi Arabia. Always looking to make the experience of our students better.
5 年Great book......great school
Kinder 3 Teacher at American School of Brasilia
5 年I am sure you have made a difference at the school!
International School Leadership
5 年A school is so much more than what you see on the physical side. X number of students, Y number of faculty, Z number of something else.... School culture and climate, and other critical intangible dimensions that give a school its collective consciousness and vitality and make people want to be there, they are the sum of its past, its present, and its aspirations. It’s a great challenge to start a new school from ground zero, not because of the logistical elements but rather the culture and history take years become an intrinsic part of what you feel when you walk in the door. But without that it can feel like just X Y and Z.
Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees @ISZL
5 年Love that book!