- Looking at the definition of successful schools in chapter 4; is Newark Valley a successful school? Why or why not?
- How can we develop personal relationships with at risk students to increase their chances of success?
- And directly from the book: How can we expand our working relationships and collaborate to meet whatever needs our students present?
Newark Valley is a successful school when you factor in both the data from state testing, as well as our personal relationships. In terms of data, our students perform well on standardized testing, but there is room for us to grow. Many of our students with IEPS or our younger students need additional help and/or incentive to reach their personal goals and to improve on state testing. Part of the issue is that they see little or no value in the work they are being asked to do. This has been a long term issue and is difficult to address. One of our biggest concerns has to be how to motivate, yet hold students accountable when they don't reach measurable goals, even as simple as completing a homework assignment. I think we are doing a better job of trying to target their needs. The ninth grade academy is one example. The after school prep for the 8th grade ELA exam was another. Both of these programs involve collaboration with many different departments in the building and offer solutions to making better connections with these groups of students. Ultimately, that is the key-making connections with all of our students is critical to improving their success. A student who feels valued and a part of the school "family" is likely to have greater success. Sometimes it is a little gesture and doesn't have to be a new innovative program. The little singing telegrams that the music department did earlier this year are an example of how we can incorporate personal touches within our school day.
ReplyDeleteLastly, the chapter talks about celebrating our successes. Diane has done a nice job with this at our faculty meetings. It would be nice for us to find a way to do something in this realm on a more regular basis. Again, the little touches make people feel connected and want to do more for our kids. Anyone have any good suggestions?
Based on chapter 4, I believe that Newark Valley is a successful school. Without restating the chapter, I can see this in the relationships between staff and students. There are numerous things that staff do to bring us closer, basketball in the mornings, friday happy hour, gatherings at staff's houses. Walking through the halls, I see many interactions between students & faculty that extend beyond cordial, into the 'quality world' of many students.
ReplyDeleteI believe that the staff tries to develop personal relationships with students and work together in the best interest of the students. As an example, in a metting of diferent departments to avoid conflicts with events on next year's school calendar, there was an amazing amount of quick compromise. In times when it is easy to fall into the mode of being protective of your department or subject, there was no conflict & easy to see that all involved were focussing on the students.
Lastly, I agree wilt Sherrill that Diane helps present & remind the faculty of the sucesses happening around us when it is easy to get bogged down in the things that don't go right. Also, during conferences with students in trouble, I fine that Diane & the staff set a tone of improvement. Rather than foccus on dissapiontment of the past, there is a foccus on a need for change, abilities that students have, and guidenance towards & hope for different path.
I believe that we have a very successful student/teacher relationship here at NV. Of course, as with anything, there is always room for improvement. But I’ve seen many students with great difficulties become successful, conscienscious students. I can recall one student who was the first in his family to graduate from high school. Another student was failing miserably in 8th grade, started improving 9th grade and was on the high honor roll 11th and 12th grade. These students were motivated and successful because the teachers they had really cared about them.
ReplyDeleteStudents also love when there is a teacher/student volleyball or basketball competition. Students whose families are struggling financially get the benefit of the staff’s generosity around Christmas when families are selected based on their economic situation and gifts are provided. The senior luncheon at the end of graduation rehearsal is also a very nice connection. Even though it is at the end of their high school career, it shows that we as a faculty care and are proud of our graduating class.
There is also a great connection with staff. Whether it’s a lunch time, discussing situations with students or just connecting on a more personal level with one another as adults.
I agree that Diane is in our corner and does a great job keeping things positive. When I’ve had any concerns with a student, our guidance office and main office have always been available for additional information and support. I also believe that in many ways we already collaborate as a faculty to meet our students’ needs. Even if it’s on an “unofficial” basis, such as checking a student’s schedule on Eschool , finding out who his/her other teachers are, and discussing issues with those other teachers. This also includes students who we see might not be working to their best abilities, even in a study hall, and asking their teachers for assignments.
For me, a way to stay connected especially with the students is to acknowledge them - see them. I try to do this every day. It can be as simple as “good sentence” or “good job” or even complimenting them on a change of hairstyle, or something that they’re wearing.
Overall, I think Newark Valley does well on regent’s exams and standardized tests but there is always room for improvement. On page 63, I connected with bullet number two. I feel that Newark Valley Teachers do work hard for our students and want them to experience success. We do have great kids and we are “like a family.” We are always looking for ways and open to suggestions to help our students experience success. This is why I have stayed at Newark Valley H.S. for 27 years.
ReplyDeleteAt risk students need to see the purpose of their learning and feel connected to school. This year I am a part of the 9th grade academy and serve as a mentor for a ninth grade student. Sometimes it is very challenging! We never know a student’s background or know what he/she is thinking until we sit down and chat about a variety of things. Students at risk need to know that teachers do care and that we do have high expectations for them. Students need to hear positive reinforcement at school especially if they’re not receiving it at home. Don't we all like to hear "good job" when we are successful?
I believe the teachers at NVHS do a lot of collaborating with each other and the students. Teachers compliment students on their successes and do whatever they need to do when dealing with student failures. Whether we discuss the student with other teachers who have that student, discuss issues with their guidance counselor, or with the building principal, we are determined to do what we can. I have to agree with Deb about giving students compliments. Even if it’s something simple, it brings a smile to their face.
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ReplyDeleteOverall, I believe Newark Valley is a successful school. The faculty and student relationships here are strong.
ReplyDeleteDeveloping personal relationships with at risk students can be challenging, but fortunately an area I excel in. I believe by talking to these students rather than talking at them is an easy step in developing a student/teacher relationship. Effectively talking to these students requires the teacher to make eye contact, listen attentively, and responding compassionately, this gives us an opportunity to guide the student in the right direction.
To expand our professional relationships, I agree with our text that not everyone wants to or are able to spend time outside the school environment, but we can share in celebrating our authentic accomplishments.