Recently, I read a piece in The Boston Globe Magazine that was both inspiring and affirming, titled “Want to raise intelligent kids? Teach Them Humility” by Deborah Farmer Kris (November 9, 2025). It’s a thoughtful piece, and I found myself nodding along as I read it. What caught my eye was that humility is a January virtue, and my brain said: “read on!”
Humility is a word that, for some, might carry a negative valence. For us at Crossroads, we consider it essential to know one’s strengths and limitations and be open to growth. Deborah Farmer Kris discussed how, in her own children, humility developed self-awareness and strengthened confidence, not diminished it. However, what struck me most was how closely the author’s observations align with the mindset we strive to cultivate at Crossroads. She highlights three elements that support both intellectual and character growth—each of which is deeply woven into our school culture:
Curiosity is at the heart of learning. We work hard to create classroom experiences that spark delight, invite discovery, and affirm that questions are often more important than answers.
Teaching students to ask for help. One of the most powerful non-cognitive skills a young person can develop is understanding that seeking help is not a sign of weakness but a sign of maturity. In our classrooms, we encourage students to lean on one another, collaborate, and view challenges as opportunities for shared problem-solving.
Teaching children to listen to others’ perspectives. Respectful dialogue and perspective-taking are essential—not just for academic success, but for growing into empathetic and compassionate adults. From class discussions to group projects, students at Crossroads practice hearing and valuing viewpoints that differ from their own.
The article reinforced for me that fostering humility is not about encouraging children to shrink, but about helping them grow—grounded, open, and confident enough to learn from the world around them. That is work we care deeply about here.
If you have a moment, I encourage you to take a look at the piece.
