This year is different. Different doesn't mean bad, though. In fact, it can represent an opportunity for positive change and improvements! But it takes intentional effort to make it that way. This year at Beaver Acres, we have more than the typical amount of students who are experiencing different: different culture, different language, different country, different communities, and different expectations (with more students just like these joining our community each month). The goal of this project is to connect with these newcomers and provide an opportunity for them to experience this different together - in ways that encourage sharing their stories/experiences, allow for expression of emotion, and celebrating the individuality each student brings to our school.

My goal as the school counselor is to create spaces where these students are able to use their hands, head, and heart simultaneously. Using art supplies such as modeling clay, paints, and markers allows children to express emotions and stories through art and creativity much more easily than it can be to find words that accurately communicate unseen thoughts. Our school sees the desire these students have to connect with others who share any sense of familiarity. These supplies will allow our students that have arrived from 3 different continents the opportunity to do what they are meant to do: enjoy connecting with others while learning valuable social skills that impact their academic success. Art can communicate experiences through expression of color. These students can use these materials to tell powerful stories of their previous culture, their favorite memories, or loved ones near and far. The more opportunities these students have to express themselves, the more these students feel heard, understood, and as though they belong as part of our community.    

Our counseling team will be meeting with multiple different small groups each week during school hours for about 20-30 minutes (depending on grade levels). I am beginning with Pashto and Dari groups and then will branch out to additional students who will also benefit from this opportunity. Groups will also be split for grade levels K-2 and 3-5.

Each year, we survey students to evaluate school climate. Part of the counseling department’s challenge for this year is to increase the number of students who can identify a safe adult at school with whom they can connect. My belief (and hope) is that by increasing connection, opportunities for expression of self, and an intentional acceptance of eclectic diversity, we will see results through an increase in regular attendance, perseverance (measured by growth evidenced in class), and a greater sense of belonging (measured by our annual survey).

Growing connections with other students and having the opportunity to enjoy small moments while at school, will increase students' desires to attend school and become a valuable part of what happens. It will increase engagement. It will allow students to express frustrations when struggling with understanding or unfamiliarity - even during moments of challenges with language differences. One of the most impactful things we can do is to ensure students feel as though they belong and have positive connections and tools as the foundation to acclimating to an entirely new culture and community.

Thank you for the support!