Students are becoming more motivated, engaged and excited to attend Aspen Heights Elementary School.
Since the MicroSociety concept was introduced into the city’s northwest school last year, staff have seen improvement on all fronts.
“They make sure they are here Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday,” said Grade 5 teacher Milton Williams.
“They love it.”
Attendance has increased but it is the improvement in problem-solving skills where the real change is occurring.
“The teachers back off a lot,” said Williams. “If our venture is having some difficulties, the students talk about it and try to solve it.”
The program ran for six weeks in 2009-2010, while this year it runs from January to the end of May.
Williams said it is too early to say whether there is an impact on marks. Last year’s 15 per cent improvement in the pre and post test scores in math, language arts and MicroSociety skills, however, indicated they are headed in the right direction.
“I think we have exceeded (our goals),” said Williams. “The motivation of the students and the desire to do well is inspiring.”
He added there is a definite surge in self-esteem and confidence in the student body.
The MicroSociety operates three times a week for an hour a day.
The school is run like a tiny community where students run businesses and organizations. All students have jobs and responsibilities.
Next month, Aspen Heights will deliver a presentation on its initiative at the Alberta Initiative for School Improvement conference hosted by Central Alberta Regional Consortium for zone 4 at the Capri Centre.
As well, the school is competing for a $25,000 grant from the Pepsi Refresh Project, a contest promoting positive impacts in the community.
Visit www.refresheverything.ca for more information.
crhyno@www.reddeeradvocate.com