Write It Out Loud

This moment was entirely spontaneous ! The kids were feeling the beat, and I decided we could fit this into their performance. I sent them on their own to do more work, and thirty minutes later they came back with original lyrics and even incorporated a basketball!

And yes, I’m saving the end product for a surprise, but y’all…..

…..THESE KIDS CAN RAP!!!!!

Today, Write It Out Loud dove headfirst into Joseph Campbell’s ‘The Hero’s Journey!’

where we go from zero to hero,
from the bottom to the top,
from the loser to the winner,

and ‘The Call to Adventure’ is simply saying yes to being being ourselves…

Write It Out Loud begins with every student
saying our “pledge” together as a group. This consistent practice encourages immediate focus, as well as positive, encouraging statements designed to promote personal growth and drive. So when the gentlemen wanted to lead the “pledge” by themselves, I was more than happy to oblige!

Research shows that students learn best in an environment where they feel safe. When students do not feel safe, this creates a mental block that interferes with the student’s ability to process and retain new information. In middle school, many factors contribute to students not feeling safe. The most immediate threat to this concept is constant worry about how their peers will perceive their actions. So rather than take chances
or ask for help when it is needed, students shut down before they even try.

Feeling safe means that students’ behavior is no longer driven by the need to protect themselves.

Feeling safe allows students to get to know others that might not be a part of their immediate circle.

Feeling safe means that making a mistake is not the end of the world.

Feeling safe means we can forgive ourselves and others with greater ease when we mess up.

Feeling safe allows students to pursue big dreams.

Feeling safe is essential for students to grow and excel in their learning.

When we say something often enough, it can become part of who we are, even if the circumstances of our lives are less than perfect. What we say about ourselves has the ability to inspire belief. Using this “pledge” regularly has helped to create a culture within Write It Out Loud where students feel safe enough to try something new…

“I am safe.
I am loved.
It is okay not to be perfect.
I can forgive myself and others for not being perfect.
I can choose good things.
I can do hard things.
I can accomplish my goals.
I choose Hope!”