To the editor:
My name is Jim Dillon and I am asking for your vote for a three-year seat on the School Committee. A School Committee member is given a trust by parents and the greater community to advocate for the best possible educational experience for every student. One aspect of schooling that is often referred to as the hidden curriculum, is school culture. I will always prioritize academic achievement for our students, but as our principals have indicated, there have been increased behavior and mental health issues among students. I have listed a few indicators that demonstrate what I believe is a healthy school culture. The committee, working with Superintendent Geary, will need to honor the trust given them by parents, and always work to improve school culture.
Indicators of appropriate school culture:
Habits of good character are championed, taught, and modeled by staff
- Students respect each other and adults
- Students learn to be responsible for their actions
- Disruptive or disrespectful students receive age-appropriate consequences
- Students learn empathy, kindness, responsibility, fairness, and other virtues
- A positive school climate permeates the school
- Students develop self reliance and leadership skills
- Students work effectively as part of a team
Students dress appropriately for a school setting - Teachers and administrators are valued
- Every child feels safe and is valued
I believe the committee should make school culture a point of focus. It impacts everything.
Jim Dillon
