By Laura Lane
The six students had signed up for the privilege, and even though at first they were a little nervous, that feeling soon disappeared.
"When they come here, we have lunch together and share conversations," said Davidowitz. "I don't usually get to know students on this wonderful, informal basis."
At times, the discussions are student-driven. On those occasions, Davidowitz said the kids ask one another questions. She believes that this is an attempt to get to know one another.
This wasn't the case on the day that the Herald stopped by, but the sixth-graders didn't seem to mind, comfortable to let Davidowitz take the lead.
Davidowitz asked a number of questions, including, "What have you experienced in your seven years in Chatterton that you really thought was a good experience? What's going on in sixth grade? Are you enjoying it?"
The students were happy to share what their favorite school functions were, but found the other questions more difficult. Davidowitz seized the opportunity to get feedback on a few ideas that she'd been considering.
"I thought maybe we could try something new at playtime," said Davidowitz. "Why don't we make friendship bracelets outside instead of just hanging out? Or what about a dance team? None of the other kids know about this, just you."
The privilege of knowing something that no other students knew opened the conversation up. Leaning back in his chair, Ryan Metzger wanted to know if the principal had been watching the Olympics.
Davidowitz later said she was pleased with that question. It gave her a chance to insert some of the character-education instruction for which Chatterton is known.
She asked Ryan if he'd seen the downhill skier who was injured and airlifted to the hospital. Returning to compete, she ranked eighth, instead of as one of the top three, which had been predicted before the injury.
"What was I thinking of as a principal when I was watching her?" Davidowitz asked. "I was thinking of her determination and focus. She kept trying, even when she was injured. You have to be the best you can be."
The sixth-graders then shared what they thought of the Olympian. A lively discussion ensued, the kind that you'd have with friends.
"I try to make sure that we'll have honest conversations," said Davidowitz. "The kids who come often aren't best friends. This is a place where kids who never got to know each other can get to know each other and me, too."
Davidowitz said the luncheon, which she holds three times a month, has become popular. She's hoping to expand it by offering the principal luncheon to the other grades, as well.
"There aren't any rules here," said Davidowitz. "They just seem to know how to act and respond to each other, and how to be a part of the conversation. That's important, especially with a mixed gender group."
Comments about this story? Llane@liherald.com or (516) 569-4000 ext. 236.
