Through administering a needs assessment to 8th grade staff and students at Orchard Gardens it became apparent that 8th grade students were in need of strength based developmental guidance. These students are at a key transition period in their academic careers and as such it is vitally important that they have a high sense of self worth and believe in their capabilities.
I initiated contact with the VIA Institute, a key organization in the field of positive psychology, and secured $5000 worth of pro-bono services to pilot their strengths building curriculum. VIA's lead curriculum designer and I modified their existing curriculum and created a five additional lesson plans to fit the needs and culture of Orchard Garden. Nine Citizen Schools Fellows and I implemented the curriculum in two Boston Public Middle Schools through extended day programing. Over 100 8th grade students participated.
I initiated contact with the VIA Institute, a key organization in the field of positive psychology, and secured $5000 worth of pro-bono services to pilot their strengths building curriculum. VIA's lead curriculum designer and I modified their existing curriculum and created a five additional lesson plans to fit the needs and culture of Orchard Garden. Nine Citizen Schools Fellows and I implemented the curriculum in two Boston Public Middle Schools through extended day programing. Over 100 8th grade students participated.
Results:
85% of students reported an increase in optimism
Over 73% of students reported an increase in self-efficacy,
resiliency and gratitude
Scroll through the slide show below or click on the "Program Description" button to learn more.