During advisory time (once a week), students will be participating in a program called CharacterStrong. This program aims to develop character, social and emotional skills, and strengthen relationships between students and educators. It's based on research in psychology, education, adolescent development, and social emotional learning. CharacterStrong's curriculum is designed to help students learn and apply character traits and social-emotional competencies in their lives and with others.
CharacterStrong's curriculum is built around five main principles: Emotion understanding and regulation, Empathy and compassion, Values and purpose, Goals and habits, and Leadership and teamwork.
The curriculum is designed to help students develop three outcomes: well-being, belonging, and engagement.
If you'd like to read more about the research supporting the success of the CharacterStrong program, please use this link: https://characterstrong.com/research/
The Troy Howard Middle School Advisory Program is a structured support system designed to provide students with guidance, personal development, and a sense of community. Typically, students are assigned to a small group led by a teacher or staff member (the advisor) who acts as a mentor and advocate for their social, emotional, and academic growth. Advisory groups at Troy Howard Middle School meet daily for 30 minutes and serve as a space for students to discuss challenges, develop life skills, and build relationships with their peers and advisor.
The goals of a middle school advisory program include:
Fostering relationships: Advisors work with students to develop strong connections with peers and their advisor, as well as supporting students to foster positive relationships with all of their teachers.
Promoting personal growth: Advisors teach skills like goal-setting, self-reflection, emotional regulation strategies, and time management.
Providing academic support: Advisors and peers offer guidance in areas such as study habits, organizational skills, and monitoring academic progress.
Creating a safe space: Advisors create and maintain a safe and supportive environment for students to discuss personal and emotional issues.
Building community: Advisors work with their advisees to create a shared sense of belonging and inclusiveness within the school.