beLEADERS | IH Entrepreneurs' Center

beLeaders | October 9, 2025

Leading Moments - Indian Hill Elementary School

Teamwork Makes the Dreamwork!

My recent visit to Mr. AJ Froehlich’s class was a powerful reminder of the theme “Teamwork makes the dreamwork.” His students worked in small groups to solve mixed number math problems posted around the room, but what stood out most was not only their ability to calculate the correct answers, but also their thoughtful discussions about how they arrived at their solutions. Each group had to explain their reasoning, compare different strategies, and challenge one another’s thinking, all in a collaborative, respectful way. Listening in, I was reminded that problem solving is not linear; it is a creative and complex process with multiple pathways to success. The energy in the room showed how collaboration deepens understanding, strengthens confidence, and fosters the kind of teamwork that turns learning into a shared achievement.

From Parasites to Partners: 5th Graders Make Symbiosis Simply Awesome!

During my visit to Mrs. Haney’s 5th grade class earlier this week, I had the privilege of watching students dive deeper into the fascinating world of symbiotic relationships. Even though it was only their second day with the material, the students confidently articulated the meaning of these complex (and often tricky to pronounce) terms and applied them to real-world examples. They explored commensalism, mutualism, and parasitism, categorizing interactions between organisms and illustrating them with simple yet effective symbols.

The energy in the room was contagious—their enthusiasm and curiosity brought the science to life. For me, it felt like coming home, returning to the subject where my own career began more than two decades ago. What a true joy to witness!

Friendship, Fun, and Life Lessons .. .all in Español

My visit to Señora Kirchner’s classroom today was both energizing and inspiring. Learning a world language is never simple, but her approach ensures that every child feels both challenged and supported as they grow together. The students were fully engaged in a wide variety of activities that went far beyond vocabulary, exploring concepts such as leading by example, being a great friend, showing patience, and sharing, all while immersed in Spanish.

The classroom itself, bright and colorful, beautifully reflected the vibrancy of the language and culture. Students first collaborated in groups and were then reshuffled into new partnerships to take on the challenge of matching English and Spanish phrases drawn from a video about friendship. I couldn’t resist joining them on the floor, helping facilitate the activity firsthand.

Though the work wasn’t always easy, the students encouraged one another, persevered, and succeeded. It was a powerful reminder of where language acquisition begins, and of the resilience and teamwork it takes to truly learn a second language.

Connect with us!

Jeff Damadeo, Director of K-12 Leadership & Career Development

Jeff.Damadeo@ihsd.us

Twitter: @indianhillEC

My #IHPromise - to work tirelessly for our students, providing them with the most exceptional educational opportunities & experiences to help ensure that they develop into outstanding academic students and future ready individuals!