Where Are We Now?

Wasn't it just yesterday we were preparing for the beginning of the new school year? Now we are in the final days before the end of this year. Where did the time go? Are we achieving our goals? How are we doing?

A new year is fast approaching. At this time it is typical for us to reflect then begin to plan for the new year. On Friday, our "students at risk" team met to evaluate a recently implemented program. It was interesting to note how sometimes we get caught up in paperwork, routines, and procedures that we fail to see and address the real issues. As I sat in the meeting it became apparent that if we are to move these students it will require more than "business as usual". 

Prior to this meeting there was a student conference for this target group. During the conference there was a common consensus that the adults in the building were uncaring. For me this spoke volumes. It explained why there were more students attending particular classes than others as well as the warm and inviting atmosphere that is encountered on entering these classrooms. To further emphasize the necessity of a strong psychosocial environment, one student who is notorious for skipping school and cutting classes expressed his gratitude to a supervising assistant principal (who had taken the time to assist him) for caring enough to help him. This brought tears to our eyes.

It is therefore imperative that we get to know our students and their circumstances, provide opportunities for building trust, and to be willing to work with them through their situations without being judgmental. It requires us to win the hearts and minds of the students. In nurturing a caring and supportive environment built on trust miracles can happen.

Where are you now and what are your next steps?

Have a Fabulous Week!

Petreno