On the first Friday of every month, parents and community members file into San Dieguito Academy’s Conference Center to meet with Principal Tim Hornig and catch up with happenings around campus. Components of these “First Friday with Hornig” meetings include conversation, presentation of school projects, ample coffee provided in the back of the room, and overall, an environment for communication.

The past First Friday with Hornig, held on Feb. 1, began with announcements from Hornig regarding recent and current school projects and events. Club projects (including the sculpture that students are creating for the school), technology updates for science labs, and the school’s recent set of emergency drills were discussed by Hornig and the over 25 attendees. Hornig provided information on the projects as well as answered to questions and concerns.

“[I want to] try to break down walls as much as possible and be as much of a community school as can be,” said Hornig. Regarding events like the passage of Proposition A, Hornig said, he “…attempts[s] to be transparent with what is going on.” Overall, the goal of the meetings is to increase communication and understanding between everyone involved with the school.

“I want them to see the programs we have and their students in their best elements,” said Hornig. Recently, SDA students have been presenting their work at these meetings. Executives from the Mosaic and ASB representatives have shared information, goals, and upcoming events in the past.

February’s meeting featured a presentation from Robotics executives and members including a PowerPoint explaining their program and projects for the year, announcing upcoming events, and discussing different aspects of our school’s Robotics program. A part that students had designed and manufactured was passed around the room, demonstrating their work. Parents showed enthusiasm and interest in their projects, and many inquired as to how their students could become involved. At the end of their presentation, attendees were allowed to examine one of their robots, talk to the students directly, and ask further questions.

Hornig describes the meetings as a way to increase community and parent access to information regarding the school. “It’s not ‘Leave it to Beaver,’ anymore,” he said, alluding to a television show that aired in the 50s and 60s which included a number of dinner table conversations during which the two boys explained the contents of their days to their parents. The meetings keep parents informed in a day in age very different from the late 50s.