“I asked an administrator about needing more counselors available and not just for college stuff and I was told that schools are businesses and we need to remember that.”
The student voice. It’s something we hear about so often – how important it is for adults to make space to listen to student perspectives and genuinely engage with their realities. Of course, this is easier said than done. Even with the best intentions, student forums may easily be pushed aside due to time constraints, dwindling attendance, or changes in leadership.
It was the best of games . . . it was the worst of games . . .
Travel with me to a nearby soccer field – choose any one that you like as they are all pretty much full this time of year. Picture two teams of adolescent girls warming up with their teammates, running, stretching, taking shots on goal, with easy banter and laughter catching the breeze. They represent girls not looking for scholarships or hopes of college play, just some extra practice with the ball, physical activity in a game they love, and time with friends.
April is National Community Service month in the United States. That got me thinking about what service means, why it is important, how it fits into SEL, and what it looks like to serve well. So first things first – why service? What does it teach?