Goal for the Win!

This week, I asked the students to spend a few minutes doing something out of our routine in order to hopefully make a huge impact on their year. The students reflected on areas that could use some focus and attention.  These areas that need attention were worded positively and made into a goal for the students. I wanted my students to think about themselves as a student and classmate, but also as a person outside of school. They set an academic, behavioral/social, and personal goal for themselves.

I was so impressed by the reflective thinking that my students engaged in.  The goals were so specific to each student, that it was obvious that serious thought had been given.  Some students focused on a specific academic subject, while others chose to focus on a practice that will help across all academic areas.

In terms of behavioral and social goals, the students took this in many different directions as well.  Some students chose to improve on their use of the school-wide quiet signal, while some wanted to focus on including others throughout the day.  I also appreciated the thought that went into the personal goals that students set for themselves. Some students wanted to improve on their athletic skills, become more responsible, and others simply wanted to be more helpful around the house.  Regardless of what was written as a goal, the students seemed to take ownership of them.

The students will be revisiting these goals weekly.  They will be asked to discuss how they are progressing towards their goal.  The conversations will be structured in a way that is most beneficial to the students.  I expect some weeks will produce more progress than others, and that is okay! While I will be checking in with each student individually,  they will also meet with their “goal partner” from time-to-time. Participating in a discussion about their goal and progress is an integral part of their success.  I cannot wait to see the progress that these AMAZING fifth graders make throughout the year. I’m lucky to be a part of it!