Over the past six months I have seen what many researchers
say is a necessity to socially and emotionally preparing students for success
in our world. This experience that I speak about is the Jouett Culture, whose members include not only those within the
school walls, but also those outside who interact with our students on a daily
basis. Together, you have become a network of people who share a core belief of
“students first.”
One might ask, “What does this look and sound like at Jack
Jouett?” Here are some examples of how
the staff here empowers and encourages students:
Student Empowerment
When conflict arises between students, it is
seen as an opportunity for growth. Students are given the opportunity to
verbalize feelings and their perspectives before conclusions are drawn. They
are given the opportunity to decide whether or not they are comfortable with
going through a restorative discussion with another student. They are given the
opportunity to work through their emotions and use positive communication
skills with the guidance of an adult who genuinely cares more about the
learning that comes from the process rather than a consequence.
Students engage in classroom meetings where they
build confidence in speaking and learn the skills needed to communicate
effectively. These meetings also serve as an opportunity to build community, engage
in meaningful conversations about shared experiences, and to learn how to intervene
on behalf of one another as bystanders.
Students have been included in problem solving
discussions with Jouett staff to establish new school-wide technology
procedures.
Conferences
between students and teachers can often be seen. Through these conferences, students are given
the opportunity to advocate for themselves and brainstorm alongside teachers. Often the topic is ways to help the student
to be more successful. During this time they are given positive feedback and
concerns are shared.
Encouragement
Positive encouragement can be heard in the
hallways during student and teacher conferences. For example, a Jouett Math
teacher said to the student, “We love you and we care about you.” While walking
in the halls, I also overheard a student who just finished speaking to a
teacher say to a friend “I feel special” with a big smile.
Inspirational bulletin boards and quotes line
our hallways.
Students receive cheers and hi-fives as they enter school after break.
Notes of celebration for honor roll hang from students’
lockers. At the same time I hear students inspired saying, “I want one. I’m
going to get one next report card.”
Teachers can be seen in the cafeteria, sitting
with students eating lunch laughing, and chatting about things beyond the
content of their classes.
While walking down the halls I see notes of celebration on students’ lockers who made honor roll. At the same time I hear
students inspired saying, “I want one. I’m going to get one next report card.”
While watching our students perform in
orchestra, band, basketball, wrestling, and chorus; I see some of our students’
biggest fans in the classroom encouraging them to continue doing their best.
Before the winter break, our staff and school community
gave selflessly to ensure that students who celebrate traditions of gift giving
had something to give. The memory of smiles seen on their faces will last a
lifetime.
The quote by Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe “Instruction does
much, but encouragement everything” captures what I think many in the Jouett family
feel. Helping our students become well-rounded individuals who are confident in
themselves, empowered, and are aware of how to navigate their emotions;
provides a foundation for both social and academic growth that will allow them
to become a positive force in this world.
As
we embark upon the second half of our 2015-2016 journey here at Jouett, may we
continue to work together in strengthening this Culture we call our own.
