|
Characteristic 4: Address Societal Issues
Principles and Rationale for Implementing Characteristics of
Successful Schools
| Rationale:
The school is the one institution other than the family that
has consistent contact with all children. However, some children
are challenged by life issues such as violence, AIDS, teen
pregnancy, and AOD. Schools, in partnership with families and
communities, must help children develop the knowledge,
attitudes, and skills they need to make responsible decisions
about these behaviors. Children who are dealing with such
challenges are simply too preoccupied or distracted to do their
best in school.
|
Principles:
- Provide comprehensive K-12 programs and services that
address critical social issues.
- Provide opportunities for civic and social action.
- Provide adequate levels of pupil services staff for
students as well as connections to community services.
- Provide K-12 classroom instruction to help children make
responsible decisions necessary to resist risk behaviors and
engage in positive opportunities for growth and development.
- Support school employees who may be dealing with similar
issues in their own lives through an Employee Assistance
Program.
|
Expected Results of a Citizenship Initiative
Students Will
- Feel supported in making health-promoting
decisions
- Integrate and evaluate informa-tion about
many social issues
- Access a variety of programs and services
that support them in making good decisions
- Become better informed about community
resources
|
Staff Will
- Have opportunities to understand and take
action about youth risk behaviors
- Support student inquiry and participation in
civic life
- Access programs and services that encourage
good decisions for their own health
- Become better informed about community
resources
|
Families and Community Will
- Be an active partner in risk prevention and
health promotion
- Support the school’s efforts in helping
children avoid risky behaviors
|
|