Baldwin-Whitehall School District: Ryan Rydzewski, Coauthor Of When You Wonder You're Learning, Addresses Staff

Press release from Baldwin-Whitehall School District:

September 6, 2021

On Monday, August 30th, the faculty and staff of the Baldwin-Whitehall School District prepared for the beginning of the school year with an in-service that focused on the ties that keep our community strong. Educators were treated to a presentation by Ryan Rydzewski. Rydzewski and Gregg Behr are authors of the book When You Wonder, You're Learning. The book brings the lessons of Fred Rogers into the digital age, helping parents and teachers alike nurture the Neighborhood's tools in living rooms, classrooms, and everywhere else that learning takes place. The book integrates insights from thinkers, scientists, and teachers—many of whom worked with Rogers himself.

Dr. Janeen Peretin, Director of Communication, Innovation, and Advancement for the District, shares, "Ryan and Gregg explore the ways in which Fred Rogers helped his television neighbors feel accepted, special, and safe for more than 50 years. They discuss how Rogers' legacy as a brilliant educator has left us with 'tools for learning' which can boost children's academic outcomes, health, and overall well-being, their self-acceptance, their ability to form meaningful relationships, and to develop a deep regard for their neighbors."

One key message Rydzewski brought to educators was the lasting impact they make on the life of children. Fred Rogers said, "It's what you bring to the children every day—your listening, your caring, your enthusiasm, and your responding to their ideas, thoughts, and feelings—that encourages and inspires children to ask questions and to be imaginative. By responding thoughtfully to children's questions . . . you're encouraging their curiosity. Even when you don't know the answer, you're letting them know it's good to wonder and ask." This reminder set a tone of purpose as educators step into the new school year.

Prepared for the September issue of Highlander Highlights.Published 9/6/2021.

This press release was produced by Baldwin-Whitehall School District. The views expressed here are the author’s own.