Newsroom
First ever Synergy Day helps students break down barriers
Alternative Education students at the Arlington Regional Learning Center in Riverside participated in their first-ever “Synergy Day” on Tuesday, September 13, 2011, helping to break down stereotypes, get students to learn about each other, and create a positive school climate. They also invited ten Peer Leadership students and staff from Indio Regional Learning Center to attend the exciting event.
“We have seen an increase in attendance and decrease in behavior issues following Synergy Day activities (in other school districts),” said Joelle Hood, Coordinator/ Principal for the Riverside County Office of Education at the ARLC. “As Margaret Mead said, it’s hard to hate someone when you know their story.”
Throughout the day students participated in both large group and small group activities where they were able to find out more about their fellow students and what makes up their stories. They also learned techniques to become better listeners and how to improve their relationships with each other and with staff.
Students who are placed in the Alternative Education program have not been successful in their traditional school district, have been expelled or are on probation. Many students expressed appreciation to staff for providing the opportunity to participate in such a special event.
"It was fun at Synergy Day,” said one student. “It was also a way for the students and teachers to come together and learn more about each other. I learned no matter how messed up your life may seem there is always someone that may relate to you in basically the same way.”
Staff members also attend the event, and really appreciate the opportunity to interact with students on a different level. “Synergy Day was an amazing heart felt event,” said Adriana Castaneda, an Instructional Assistant.
Hood said the ARLC added a new class to the schedule this year called “Peer Leadership” and has 20 students enrolled. The students are being trained in communication skills and leadership and will help lead future Synergy Days.
For information contact:
Rick Peoples,
Public Information Officer
Telephone: (951) 826-6642
Fax: (951) 826-6199
rpeoples@rcoe.us |
