Achieve Program
ACHIEVE is a program based on the belief that many students are hindered in both academic and social situations by a poor self-image. In the realm of academics, this can surface in the kind of attitudes expressed by the following:
"I can't do it."
"I don't care."
"I give up."
"I've never been any good at math."
In social settings it may be displayed by an unwillingness to ask questions, difficulty in understanding, low frustration tolerance, fear of failure or even fear of success.
These characteristics are magnified in students who may have a weak sense of direction, a history of low achievement, failing grades, underdeveloped basic skills, questionable decision making, or a lack of short/long term goals. Behaviors frequently observed include apathy, disruptive outbursts, rage, violence, and even depression. This downward spiral, unfortunately, is often perpetuated by both peers and adults alike.
ACHIEVE is a group effort--a team of teachers, staff, and administrators who gather together to address these "growing up" issues. This is a concern for all students, regardless of academic potential, skills development, or socioeconomic status. All of us are in need of the self-achieve which comes from experiencing success, learning from setbacks, and exercising self-discipline.
The preferred method for our teachers is positive reinforcement which creates an environment of mutual respect (student-to-student, student-to-teacher, and teacher-to-student).