Universal Practices encompass intentionally designed strategies that promote a profound sense of belonging, connection, and engagement for every student. Aligned with the shared vision for readiness, classrooms adopt a common language and rituals, reinforcing the vision. The talent pipeline, comprising hiring, onboarding, professional learning, and evaluation, embraces a cohesive set of universal practices, fostering a unified and supportive educational environment.
Statements Depicting the Ideal Pursuit of a School
- Universal practices are designed to foster a sense of belonging, connection, and engagement for every student.
- These practices align with the shared vision for readiness.
- Classrooms adhere to a common language and shared rituals, reinforcing the vision for readiness.
- The talent pipeline (hiring, onboarding, professional learning, and evaluation) embraces a shared set of universal practices.
Key Resources
Quotes
“Any ritual is an opportunity for transformation”- Starhawk
“I deliberately created space for you. I want you here.”- Thandiwe Mlauli
“The only way to get students to open up to us is to show we authentically care about who they are, what they have to say, and how they feel.”- Zaretta L. Hammond
Reflection Prompts
- Which previously excluded students, or students lacking consistent engagement, might benefit from universal practices? In what ways do you see them benefitting, and what would be the evidence of this success?
- Identify 2-3 strategies and supports within your school community where there is potential to adopt universal practices to promote student ownership of learning and focus on the skills students need to feel a sense of belonging.
- Are the environments and practices on your campus (classrooms, extracurricular and common areas, virtual spaces) set up to be most welcoming and accommodating for your students or for the adults?
All Toolkit Resources
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Open Lines of Communication: Hold Authentic Spaces to Gather Feedback and Have Brave Conversations
Open lines of communication to create brave spaces for your staff, students, and community to share their excitement, hesitations, and to crowdsource the genius in the room. These protocols support organic conversations as you navigate changes or challenges.
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Culture at the Core: How North Valley’s Monthly Themes Reinforce Maxims to Unify the School Community
During a Crowdsource on March 18, 2023, Erik Lathen, Principal of North Valley High School in Grants Pass, Oregon, shared how he’s putting their maxims to use in every period, every day, for all students—and staff.