Daniel G. GreenEducational Leadership, vol.63 NO. 7

Summarized by Tim KernEd522 School Curriculum

In this case, a set up of 4 “social units” Cross age, ability, and ethnicities Maintain regular schedules during the

day Use the houses for social and academic

contests Comprised of students and staff

Goleta, California Approximately 900 7th and 8th graders 50% White 40% Hispanic 26% eligible for free lunch 230 students and 17 staff per house

To foster school community Increase student participation in school Develop citizenship skills Stronger relationships with staff and

other students Improved school climate

Points awarded at house competitions Winning contests

History jeopardy Spelling bees Etc.

Winning activities Tug of war Kickball games

Social not academic But they give points for good grades? Points for “trying”

Selected 8th graders meet in committee Chose lunch time competitions Staff advises 7th graders brought in towards end of

year as interns

Stronger school community 50% drop off in suspensions Fewer fights and bullying Overall atmosphere is more upbeat

Sounds great …but really? Time for this? Drop in suspensions…different classes? Fostering “us against them” mentality? At Tunk.

In houses for all classes Very bitter Teachers worse than kids To be fair, no contest or rewards either