Take a minute to think about the people and experiences that have inspired and enabled you to reach your goals. On that list is probably a variety of teachers, family members, employers and other community members that you've interacted with your entire life.
Now, think back to being a young student and imagine how different your school experience might have been if you had known with certainty that your voice was being heard by school leaders and that your opinions were helping to shape an incredible school experience for you and your peers. That's pretty neat to know, right? Imagine how empowering that would be.
Seven years ago, Superintendent Tony Pierantozzi introduced our district to Quaglia Institute's Student Aspirations program (QISA). QISA is based on the premise that in order for students to reach their full academic potential, students need to believe in themselves, be engaged in learning, and feel a sense of purpose.
With the help of QISA consultants, the Somerville Public Schools have been diligently working on developing the eight conditions that foster high student aspirations:
- Belonging
- Heroes
- Sense of Accomplishment
- Fun and Excitement
- Curiosity and Creativity
- Spirit of Adventure
- Leadership and Responsibility
- Confidence to Take Action
A cornerstone of the Aspirations program involves promoting student voice in the workings of a school. Each year, students complete a detailed anonymous survey called MyVoice. The MyVoice survey asks the students about their personal experiences in their schools. Statements students respond to include:
"I have friends I can play with at recess."
"If I'm upset, I can tell my teacher why."
"I like to learn new things in my classroom."
"I think I can make a difference in the world."
"My teacher and parents talk or write to each other."
Our teachers and administration look carefully at the MyVoice survey reports to identify areas of strength and weakness. This year, each Principal conducted focus groups with students to get a deeper understanding behind the responses to the survey. Using this data, at least one School Improvement Plan Goal and a series of action steps are developed and dedicated to these conditions. As a result, you will find our students engaged in leadership opportunities, mentoring, creative writing, project-based learning, community service, and interdisciplinary work.
For the 2011-2012 school year, schools have piloted Middle Grades Student Aspirations Teams as an exciting and meaningful way for students to have a real voice in the workings of their school. Each team is led by a faculty advisor and composed of student volunteers. The group meets regularly to build leadership skills, analyze the MyVoice survey results, and provide input to school leadership on how they can better address the eight conditions. This will culminate in a Student Leadership Conference later this spring where all the Somerville Middle Grades Student Aspirations teams will meet together.
In the climate of high-stakes testing and academic rigor, the Somerville Public Schools believes that focusing on these eight conditions and promoting student voice are essential in helping our students to be successful in school and in life.
More information about the Student Aspirations program can be found by visiting the Quaglia Institutes's Student Aspirations website at: www.QISA.org .
