August 2022 | Vol. 40

Beyond the Park Bench
SCK was founded in 2001 by Roxana Reid with the goal of guiding families and students to self-actualize through accessing just-right educational fit. We are a proud black-owned business.


Research is formalized curiosity. It is poking and prying with a purpose.


-Zora Neale Hurston
Sir Ken Robinson notably said, "curiosity is the engine of achievement," and in this issue, we dig into the concept of inquiry. It’s an important and natural urge to discover and grow as a human being. Curiosity, one’s strong desire to know something, is what fuels discovery and growth. Research tells us that curiosity is just as important as intelligence in determining how well students do school. And scientists tell us that it is an essential factor in learning. When curious, students are able to think for themselves, make their own choices, and direct their own learning. Simply put, curiosity makes learning more effective and enjoyable for students of all ages.   
The Case for Curiosity
Educators understand the value in creating curiosity-provoking environments for young thinkers. To actively wonder why, how, when, and where is the kind of thinking that builds the intellectual and emotional muscle needed to stay curious enough about the world to actually change it.
In The Case for Curiosity, the teens at Innovators for Purpose walk us through their examination of inquiry.
The Business Case for Curiosity
A well-developed sense of curiosity enhances learning for middle-schoolers and teens. It prepares the brain for learning; students are more likely to remember what they have learned when they are intrigued by subject matter. Curiosity focuses on the “never stop wondering/never give up” trait that is so important to success and fulfillment.
Harvard Business School's Francesca Gino dives into curiosity in “The Business Case for Curiosity,” citing research showing that it leads to higher-performing, more adaptable firms - something today’s budding young entrepreneur needs to know about.
Buzz on the Quad
Executive Functioning and Adolescent Mental Health
Please join us in this dynamic workshop hosted by Dr. Evan Flamenbaum who teaches us why adequate executive functioning is critical to learning. Geared toward parents of middle and high school students, on the relationship between executive functioning and mental health, parents of any age student are sure to benefit from Dr. Flamenbaum's expertise. He explores the following topics:

  • The relationship between common mental health disorders and various aspects of executive functioning.
  • Specific evidence-based techniques to improve such cognitive processes as processing speed and executive functioning.
  • High utility interventions to reduce procrastination and improve time management.
  • How cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can integrate metacognitive skill development into treatment.
Tutor Highlight!
Smart City Tutors provides families with quality instruction from experienced tutors. Our tutors specialize in a range of subjects, as well as offering general academic support, executive functioning guidance, and test preparation.

This month we are highlighting Shaun Johnson, our Spanish tutor! Currently working as an elementary school Spanish teacher, Shaun has years of experience teaching Spanish to students of all ages.
His ability to connect with and engage students is equal to his mastery of the language. To learn more about Shaun or any of our tutors, please visit smartcitykids.com/tutors, and complete an inquiry form to get started. We look forward to hearing from you!
Plan Ahead for September!