Head of School Welcome
Welcome to Seven Peaks School!
As a parent of three former students, and active member of the Bend community, I am honored and humbled to serve as the Head of School at Seven Peaks.
The one thing that has always stood out to me about our school is the unique culture that holds together the values of kindness and academic excellence. I see it in the way our students genuinely care for each other and for their schoolwork as they work collaboratively on group projects to share with the wider community; I see it in the parents who reach out when there is a need and volunteer their time and expertise to make our school better, safer, and kinder; I see it in our faculty who actively seek growth in their teaching practice for the sake of their students; and I see it in our community members who have dedicated time and energy to serve the vision of Seven Peaks and make it an anchor institution in this rapidly growing Central Oregon mountain community.
In this moment in time, one characterized by rapid change and uncertainty, Seven Peaks continues to hold firm to our mission of nurturing each individual child toward a lifelong love of learning so that they will be able to thrive in the complexities of our world and be empowered and inspired to do good for our neighbors, near and far. Our educational approach prepares students for the complexities of our world by developing in them the key skills needed to meet any future challenge. Among these skills we especially identify critical thinking, creative thinking, and ethical thinking. As skilled learners we also recognize that our students need a well-formed emotional intelligence and the ability to self-regulate, so we spend time to develop these qualities as well. And, as an IB (International Baccalaureate) World School, we are committed to a world-class, inquiry-driven, internationally-minded, and project-based approach to educating the whole child.
If you are new to our community, or a long time resident, and you are looking for a school in Bend to entrust the education of your children through 8th grade, come visit us at Seven Peaks. I look forward to welcoming you and introducing you to the wonderful things happening here.
Sincerely,
Dr. Adams
VALUES
CURIOSITY
We are adventurers. We value inquiry and exploration, cultivating a growth mindset and a life-long love of learning.
We are open-minded, acknowledging our own cultural and personal history, and are curious about the perspectives of others. We understand inquiry is an iterative process and we reflect on our own learning and exploration. Deep critical thinking takes place when we are challenged to articulate and test our perceptions, forming and defending our opinions. We strive for depth of knowledge, diving deep into subjects and continually expanding our understanding through an inquiry-based approach.
CHILD-CENTERED
We are nurturers. We value the journey of childhood and seek to inspire our students' curiosity, courage, and joy through differentiated learning and play.
We place children at the center of all we do. We have a genuine, deep respect for the agency of the child. Through learning and play, children find their voice and confidence. This confidence empowers healthy risk-taking and inquiry within age-appropriate boundaries. By interweaving ethical development with challenging academics, we foster knowledgeable, compassionate, and effective global citizens.
JOY
We are joyful.
We value the delight of discovery, the connections we make, and the learning we experience on our journey together.
The love of learning lies not only in the destination of knowledge but in the process of exploration: the sheer delight that comes from self-discovery and personal growth. The process of learning requires nurturing wonder, supporting healthy risk-taking and being vulnerable. We take chances. we fall. we grow. Learning can be challenging and frustrating, but the rewards of the connections made and the insight gained should elicit feelings of pride, excitement, gratitude, confidence and joy.
COMMUNITY
We are connected. We value a collaborative and inclusive environment, promoting involvement, belonging, and fun in our everyday school lives.
We create community and a shared sense of belonging. We actively listen. We are transparent and candid, not shying away from difficult conversations, but approaching them with compassion and purpose. We consider different perspectives and cultures, learning from others and expanding our global awareness. We are kind, caring, and respectful, dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of others and the world around us.
INTENTIONAL
We are thinkers.
We value thoughtful and deliberate design and action, thus challenging students to grow to their potential while striving for a rigorous academic experience.
We approach every opportunity and challenge with purpose, being reflective on how to improve in the future. We intentionally balance different aspects of our lives—intellectual, physical, and emotional—to achieve well-being for ourselves and others. We clearly and confidently articulate the why and how of every action and communication.