As we continue our Learning Journey at McNeely, we are discovering the many opportunities we have to notice, name and nurture core competencies.  It is also very exciting to see our students able to assess their own competencies, even in kindergarten.  Our hunch is that our flexible learning environments make it easier for teachers and students to have the kinds of interactions that make the competencies come alive.  In the olden days, when students sat in rows and were not allowed to talk to one another, how could they possibly improve their communication skills?  How could they become more creative and critical thinkers, or build the social skills necessary to contribute to community?  Learning is a social phenomenon and when children feel comfortable, mentally, physically and emotionally, they are more likely to engage in the challenging thinking tasks we provide for them.