Advisory+Themes+and+Connections

Advisory teachers are encouraged to create ‘partnerships’ for shared activities and to have in place a back-up system for continuity in the event of absences. It is up to each partnership to negotiate the degree to which their Advisories work together.

Advisory will have major themes with activities and presentations that use that theme as a starting point. Within the themes Advisory will have a 4-class cycle: o Friday 1: “Why Try” – These sessions will be presented by Jennifer Cano-Smith in large groups. To assist her efforts, teachers are asked to sit among students (active behavior management), actively participate and be enthusiastic about the opportunity for growth and learning that is “Why Try”. Active support and a positive attitude about “Why Try” will enhance the learning and growth of students. o Friday 2: Teacher Choice – suggestions will be given for activities that are connected to the previous sessions’ Why Try presentation. At a minimum it is requested that Advisory teachers ask open-ended questions about the previous sessions’ presentation and follow the needs of the group for discussion or clarification. Beyond presenting the opportunity for students to further explore the ideas of Why Try this is a Teacher Choice day. o Friday 3: Community/All School Day – ideas from staff and students are important for these to be valuable sessions. o Friday 4: Teacher Choice – whatever you want to do! If you need ideas please talk with other Advisory teachers or contact Bonnie or Kathy.

This theme will address introducing the idea of PRIDE House and forming relationships within the group.
 * Theme: Begin at the Beginning **

August 19, 2011 August 19, Introduction to Advisory, Team Building w/Advisory teachers, Fun Day and BBQ *Name Games and introductions

August 26, 2011 Renewing your relationships. Continue building relationships through games and other activities.

September 2, 2011 Room 212, instructor is Jennifer Cano-Smith Why Try: Reality Ride—Illustrates the consequences of our daily choices, emphasizing that the “easy, fast track” seems more exciting, but often leads to poor outcomes (crash), while the “harder but worth it” track involves making choices that are better for the long term.