A few years ago, Goodyear Elementary was a school in crisis. Student academic performance was well below mandated expectations. Rates of discipline referrals and student suspensions were soaring, Absences and tardies were chronic. As a result, too many interactions between school personnel and students' families were negative. Teachers were frustrated and exhausted. At the end of that academic year, like many before it, the Superintendent of Schools received several teacher requests for a transfer to another school.
With support from the Superintendent, community members, and the Momentous Institute, Dr. Dawson led Goodyear Elementary in a new direction. The key initiative was to utilize social emotional learning in service to their mission:
To create an environment where every child has a healthy attitude about themselves, learning and each other.
Teachers and administrators thoughtfully adopted policies and practices that were mission-aligned, generating a momentum for success that is still going strong!
The results can only be described as stunning. Goodyear Elementary went from an Improvement Required Campus to being recognized as one of the two most improved schools in the State of Georgia. In addition, rates of disciplinary incidents declined from 500 to 300 in the first year. Student discipline is no longer interrupting instruction or derailing learning. Student (and teacher) attendance improved and teacher retention is better than ever at Goodyear. Perhaps most importantly, there is a new feeling on this campus; one of joy, connection, and shared goals. Students' families feel welcomed and valued, resulting in children who are motivated to learn.
Goodyear Elementary is an example of what every school can be - for every teacher and every child.
A Mindfulness-Based Curriculum Improves Young Children's Relationship Skills and Social Awareness