SEL Awardee

Joshua Augustus

Goodwill High School
Victor Valley Union High School District
Victorville, CA
“First of One is a transition & retention program designed by students for students. A student's 1st day at a Continuation High School could be filled with anxiety because of all the fears of the unknown. Upon entry to the school, students are assigned a "house" that accumulates Positive Behavior Incentives throughout the year. These houses have peer to peer leaders that are trained to lead by CASELS Five Core Competencies of self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision making. Majority of the students that complete our graduation requirements will be the first in their family to complete high school. The "First of One" name is designed to encourage students to know that being the first is difficult, but at the same time, very rewarding. Students will understand that their future isn't dictated by their past. Every successful person is just one mentor away. With the right amount of "push" students will realize they can be The One that breaks generational curses, starting with education. Events are broken down by Houses, SEL Days, Restorative Circles, Wellness Initiatives, and Field Trips. Studies have shown that students that are involved on campus are less likely to be involved in negative behavior. Students that participate in clubs and sports are more likely to increase attendance, retention, and achievement.”
Tags: Boys and Young Men of Color, Girls & Young Women of Color, High School, Students Affected by Suspensions, Suburban, Teacher, Traditional Public School