It began with motivation and reminders. Mr. Cody – having reviewed the work completion log being used by all SEED Miami staff to track student progress – began with the positive. “Gentlemen, I loved seeing that a few of you who weren’t getting work done earlier in the week have picked it up.” A few individual shout outs to students followed, those students earning top praise popping collars, brushing shoulders, and proudly accepting the feedback. Others received firm, but loving, prompts. Reminders that they are capable of excellence and need to demonstrate better effort and work ethic. All of the feedback ended in support. “You all know I am here, let me know how I can help.”
After the reminders, the meeting shifted. Each young man was requested to share with the group. First, what had they learned about COVID-19 in their research, how are they (and their families) doing, and lastly, their metaphor for the upcoming POL (Presentation of Learning). Students shared what they are enjoying about virtual learning (often, completing work whenever they like) and what was challenging (also, completing work whenever they like!) Most mentioned missing friends, staff, and daily structure. Boredom and balance were also themes. As the meeting drew to a close, Mr. Cody announced his upcoming incentive initiative – students who met certain work completion benchmarks would be earning virtual game credits and/ or gift cards to mark their success. He also announced an upcoming Netflix Party, a chance for them to all log on together to watch a movie and have discussion.
Mr. Cody’s session had all of the characteristics of a hallmark SEED Miami House Meeting: high expectations, care, concern, challenges, and solutions. It exemplified the connections and care that bring together a group of 10th grade boys at a time that most high schoolers may prefer to be elsewhere.
As we work to provide our 24-hour services and model to a virtual setting at The SEED School of Miami, the meeting was a clear reminder of the importance of wraparound support and the value of SEED’s student life program and staff. No matter the platform, the relationships within our community persevere and leverage outcomes for our phenomenal students.
