02.17.2025

Dear CSA families,

Friendly reminder that there is no school this Monday, 2/17/25, in observance of Presidents’ Day.

Embracing a Growth Mindset: Turning Challenges into Opportunities
At Colorado SKIES Academy, we believe that the way learners perceive their abilities profoundly impacts their learning journey. Embracing growth -the belief that intelligence and talents can be developed through dedication and hard work- empowers learners to view challenges as opportunities for growth.

Understanding Growth Mindset
A growth mindset contrasts with a fixed mindset, where individuals see their abilities as static traits. Learners with a fixed mindset may avoid challenges, fearing failure and believing that effort is futile. In contrast, those with a growth mindset understand that effort and perseverance are pathways to mastery. They see setbacks not as indicators of inadequacy but as valuable learning experiences.

Benefits of a Growth Mindset
Research has shown that learners who adopt a growth mindset are more resilient in the face of difficulties. They are more likely to embrace challenges, persist through obstacles, and see effort as a necessary component of success. This perspective not only enhances academic performance but also fosters a love for learning and personal development.

Cultivating a Growth Mindset
Here are some strategies to help learners develop a growth mindset:

• Embrace Challenges: Encourage learners to step out of their comfort zones. Facing new and difficult tasks can lead to significant learning experiences.
• Value Effort: Reinforce the idea that effort is a crucial part of the learning process. Praise learners for their hard work and determination, not just their innate abilities.
• Learn from Criticism: Teach learners to view constructive feedback as a tool for improvement rather than a personal attack.
• Reflect on Learning: Regular reflection helps learners recognize their progress and understand areas for growth. Activities like journaling about what they’ve learned from a challenging task can reinforce a growth mindset.
• Celebrate Mistakes: Normalize making mistakes as a natural part of learning. Discuss what went wrong and how to approach the problem differently next time.

Our Commitment
At Colorado SKIES Academy, we are dedicated to fostering an environment where a growth mindset can flourish. Our Facilitators integrate these principles into their teaching, encouraging learners to take intellectual risks and view challenges as opportunities. By embracing a growth mindset, our learners are not only preparing for academic success but also a lifetime of resilience and continuous growth.

Together, let’s support our learners in developing the mindset that will enable them to soar to new heights!

In partnership,

Director Christa Coryell, Campus Director Meredith Motley, & Chief of Staff Jennifer Tilghman (Author of the Weekly Flight Path)