Sterling School Wins Whole Child Award
Sterling School is the recipient of the ASCD Whole Child Award. The award is designed to recognize schools that have gone beyond a vision for educating the whole child to actions that result in learners who are knowledgeable, emotionally and physically healthy, civically active, artistically engaged, prepared for economic self-sufficiency, and ready for the world beyond formal schooling. The award acknowledges those schools that have changed the conversation about education from a focus on narrowly defined academic achievement to one that promotes the development of the whole child: a child who is healthy, safe, engaged, supported and challenged.
The ASCD said Sterling has demonstrated that they are committed to the tenets of the Whole Child, most specifically the tenet of SUPPORT. Common expectations and a positive language is shared throughout the school with their PBIS program and is evidenced in Griffin PRIDE-which stands for positivity, respect, integrity, determination, and empathy. Teachers have participated in in-depth professional development in social-emotional learning and the effects of trauma on students. In addition to improving their school’s guided reading and balanced literacy efforts, teachers have received extensive training to implement guided math, project based learning, and SmartARTs training, all of which are necessary to engage, support, and challenge students. A personalized approach to education is not only encouraged but supported and expected.
School leaders and educators clearly know that intentional, strong partnerships with supportive community organizations are key to the success of serving the Whole Child. Sterling has partnered with the Nicholtown Child and Family Collaborative and the Greenville City Police to support the students and families in the community they serve. Faculty has received training in gang awareness, partnered to hold weekly open gym nights and offered an annual summer camp that emphasizes good decision making and leadership.
Watch to see why Sterling is a leader in creating a positive social-emotional culture within our district and a model within the state.