We got rid of our big acknowledgement system from the past two years, and are now implementing Principal's 200 Club. However, we are calling it GeRRRy's 200 club, which is our stuffed giraffe that is the face of our SWPBIS. We are also using an acknowledgement system for our specialists teachers. Classrooms will be in the running to receive The Golden Ticket Award aka Class of the Month for that specific special. They will be rated with a rubric and the class that earns the most points at the end of the month will be recognized at our monthly awards assembly. They will receive a banner that says "Class of the Month" and an item that symbolizes that particular class painted in gold! Now I just need to find items that represent computer class :)
Today, two of us presented the components of SWPBIS and our GeRRRy program to the staff. It's so important to inform to all staff, as each member is an important part in the success of the program. We have full support from out administration, which is such an important component. Our Principal even got her own giraffe to put in her office. Now we have a GeRRRY, GeRRRy's Mom and DAD....and some cousins. Real life. Some of my days are spent telling fictional stories about GeRRRy's weekend, parents, and current whereabouts.
We spoke to our staff about the giraffe mascot uniform we are hoping to purchase for our school. This would be a great asset to our program, as the giraffe will be visible in all areas, and really promote our program. And the kids would go wild for it! We would like to have him at our assemblies, especially ones that teach school wide expectations. ..(do you like how I talk about this stuffed animal as a person?)
When we showed the staff the picture of the costume, they literally started pulling out money and collecting it all without hesitation. Our Home and School donated money to match. I cannot explain how amazing a feeling it is having BEYOND the needed support from our staff. They didn't hesitate and almost looked at me like duh! we'l all give money for it. It says so much about how dedicated they are to the success of our school and making our environment enjoyable for our kids. I don't think I'll forget that moment.
When having to present and introduce a system to be implemented, it can be met with resistance by staff. It's hard to implement new programs, and at times I am hesitant about how it will be received. Their actions completely erased any unknowns that I had, and will have with this plan. I feel that we are genuinely working towards something to make our environment great for everyone, and it was so apparent today.
So we ordered the costume today, and it should be here in time for the first day of school!
This was such a great way to start the new school year...I'm really excited.
Here is a picture of our GeRRRy's 200 board...still in the works.
Do you have a SWPBIS? Are you a lead facilitator? What do you find to be successful for your program?
