Advisory Discussions
Berkshire Country Day’s Diversity Statement:
“Diversity defines us all as we bring our unique combination of attributes to the Berkshire Country Day community. It is this diversity that enriches and strengthens our school. Each of our identities include race, gender, class (education levels, and income/assets), ethnicity, religious preference, sexual orientation, age, abilities/disabilities, and language, as well as many other attributes that give shape to self.“
This statement, alongside our Core Values and Mission, helps to guide the faculty and students in their collective work during advisory blocks. Often, an emerging issue in class will spark a conversation on issues of difference and diversity, however our hope is that this statement become a guiding principal in all of our daily interactions and one that is carried throughout our young students’ lives.
Topics addressed and activities completed during advisory blocks vary widely between grade levels, but include: how to be a good friend, organizational skills (from using a planner to keeping a cubby clean), how to study for a test, bullying (issues around exclusion and aggression both verbal and non-verbal), understanding plagiarism, managing stress (home and school), physical wellness and mindfulness (getting enough sleep, exercise and eating well), healthy relationships, sexual orientation, gender issues, Internet safety and chat rooms/communal gaming, and many more.
In addition, a class may use the time to meet with their buddy classes for “down time” and games, peer mentoring, or just a moment to run around outside and be kids–as many did during the advisory blocks of ERB week. Paul Lindenmaier, John Evans and I circulate among homerooms during advisory blocks and special meetings to address specific topics as well. For example, over the past few months Paul has had several discussions on issues of diversity and privilege, John has opened discussions on bullying, what constitutes inappropriate language and the topic of sexual harassment (what is it and how do I report it?), while I have addressed class dynamics around exclusion, gossiping, and cultural differences.
It is important and rewarding work and I thank our parents who help us to keep the conversation alive beyond our classroom walls.
Regards,
Carmen
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I had the pleasure of attending my first Classics Day this past Friday. This “Super Bowl ” of Latin students was impressive, indeed. As the only junior school present, I was all the more proud of how well our students placed in everything from quiz bowls, to art competitions, to recitations. In short, the day was just one more affirmation that BCD students rise to the challenges we present them, with confidence and success.
