In previous editions of Connections, I have highlighted our District 117 Portrait of a Graduate which identifies six competencies we want our students to develop during their four years in our schools. These competencies—Communicates, Collaborates, Is Emotionally Intelligent, Is Courageous, Thinks Critically, and Embraces Diversity—serve as the “north star” for our programming, curriculum, and instruction at District 117.
In this edition, I’d like to focus on the “Communicates” competency, which challenges us to nurture District 117 graduates who:
1. Articulate ideas effectively using clear and concise oral and written communication.
2. Initiate and sustain meaningful conversations with empathy and respect in various settings.
3. Consistently work toward developing an understanding of audience and self.
In English Language Arts classes, students hone their communication skills through essay writing, literary analysis, and public speaking. During a recent visit to an English class, I observed a lively debate where students, divided into two teams, argued for or against a character’s actions in a novel they had read together. This exercise not only helped them refine their language and structure for clarity but also emphasized the importance of addressing potential counterarguments. Through presentations, students practice their speaking skills, focusing on tone, body language, and audience engagement.
In World Language courses, communication takes on an intercultural dimension. Students learn to express themselves in a new language while also considering cultural nuances that influence how their messages are received. This fosters not only language proficiency but also empathy and adaptability, as students gain a deeper understanding of how communication varies across cultures and the importance of audience awareness.
In Social Studies, students engage in discussions and debates on historical and contemporary issues, learning to initiate and sustain conversations with respect and empathy. For example, in a history class I observed last spring, students adopted the perspectives of historical figures to better understand their motivations and actions and then attended a “dinner party” in the role of that figure to act out what their perspective would sound like in conversations. These activities equip students with the skills to convey ideas clearly while respecting diverse viewpoints—skills that will serve them well in their future civic and community engagement.
By prioritizing communication as a core competency, we empower our students with the tools to express themselves effectively, connect with others, and adapt their communication styles to different contexts. These are essential life skills that will benefit our students far beyond their high school years.
Jeff Feucht, Ed.D.
Superintendent
Community High School District 117
